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Recognizing the Early Signs of Prostate Cancer

Posted on by Advanced Urology of Southwest Louisiana in ,

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, but when detected early, it is often treatable, with many patients going on to live long, healthy lives. Understanding the early signs of prostate cancer, recognizing the risk factors, and knowing when to seek medical advice are essential steps in improving the chances of successful treatment.

Below, we take a look at the key symptoms of prostate cancer, the risk factors involved, and the diagnostic tests that can help detect the condition early.

What is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is cancer that begins in the prostate, a small walnut-shaped gland that produces seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. Prostate cancer is typically slow-growing and may not cause significant symptoms in its early stages, which is why early detection is so important. There are different types of prostate cancer, but most cases are adenocarcinomas, which begin in the glandular cells of the prostate.

While prostate cancer can be serious, especially when it spreads beyond the prostate, many men with early-stage prostate cancer can be successfully treated with surgery, radiation, or other therapies.

Early Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

Recognizing the early signs of prostate cancer can help ensure that you seek medical attention sooner, potentially leading to better outcomes. Some of the most common symptoms associated with prostate cancer include:

  • Frequent Urination: This is especially noticeable at night, a condition known as nocturia. Frequent urges to urinate may indicate an enlarged prostate or other issues related to prostate health.
  • Difficulty with Urination: Men with prostate cancer may experience trouble starting or stopping urination. The urine stream may be weak or interrupted, and it may take longer to empty the bladder fully.
  • Painful Urination or Ejaculation: Pain or a burning sensation while urinating or during ejaculation can be a sign that the prostate is affected.
  • Blood or Semen In Urine: Blood or semen in the urine is a concerning symptom that should be investigated immediately.
  • Persistent Pain in the Lower Back, Hips, or Pelvis: Pain in these areas can sometimes indicate that the cancer has spread beyond the prostate, but it can also occur in the early stages. Any unexplained or persistent pain should be taken seriously.

Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer

Certain factors can increase a man’s risk of developing prostate cancer. Understanding these risk factors can help guide decisions about screenings and preventive measures:

  • Age: Prostate cancer is most commonly diagnosed in men over the age of 50. The risk increases significantly with age, with men over 65 at higher risk.
  • Family History: A family history of prostate cancer can increase your chances of developing the disease. If a father or brother has had prostate cancer, you may be at greater risk.
  • Genetics: Some inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, have been linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer.
  • Race: African American men are at higher risk for prostate cancer, and they tend to be diagnosed at younger ages and with more aggressive forms of the disease.

When to See a Urologist

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, or if you fall into a higher risk category, it’s important to consult with a board-certified urologist like Dr. Siddiq. Early detection of prostate cancer is key to successful treatment, so don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.

Even if you don’t have noticeable symptoms, it’s still important for men over the age of 50 (or younger if they have risk factors) to discuss screening options with their doctor. Regular screening can help detect cancer before symptoms appear, potentially leading to earlier, more effective treatments.

Diagnostic Tests for Prostate Cancer

Several diagnostic tests are used to confirm the presence of prostate cancer and assess its severity:

  • PSA Test (Prostate-Specific Antigen): The PSA blood test measures the level of PSA, a substance produced by the prostate. Elevated PSA levels can be a sign of prostate cancer, although other conditions, like benign prostate enlargement, can also cause high PSA levels.
  • Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): In a DRE, the doctor physically examines the prostate by inserting a gloved finger into the rectum to feel for any abnormal lumps or hard areas on the prostate.
  • Biopsy: If the PSA test or DRE suggests prostate cancer, a biopsy may be performed. During this procedure, small tissue samples are taken from the prostate and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer.

Prostate Cancer Screening in Lake Charles, LA

Recognizing the early signs of prostate cancer and understanding the risk factors involved can make a significant difference in the outcome of treatment. If you experience symptoms like changes in urination, pain, or blood in urine or semen, don’t wait to contact Dr. Siddiq at (337) 480-7499.

Regular screenings and consultations with a urologist are key to early detection, which is crucial for the successful management of prostate cancer. If you are at higher risk for prostate cancer, be proactive in discussing your screening options and potential next steps.

The Role of Diet and Exercise in Overcoming ED

Posted on by Advanced Urology of Southwest Louisiana in ,

It is estimated that 30 million men in the United States are affected by ED. Your chance of developing it increases as you get older and if you take certain drugs like antidepressants and blood pressure drugs. Type 2 diabetes and heart disease can also contribute to erectile issues. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the main cause of ED is poor vascular function.

With all these strikes against you, it might be wise to consider the role of diet and exercise in overcoming ED.

Can Exercise Improve Erectile Dysfunction?

You may be surprised that moving can help you enjoy sex more. Experts suggest some daily exercise is key. It doesn’t have to be strenuous, but get into some walking, biking, swimming, yoga, and Kegel exercises. According to a Harvard study, walking for just 30 minutes a day can reduce your risk of ED by 41%.

The more you move, you reap other benefits which can help with erectile dysfunction issues. Primarily, if you consistently do some moderate exercise, you should lose weight. Reducing your waistline is beneficial. In fact, a man with a 42 inch waistline is 50% more likely to have ED versus a man with a 32 inch waistline.

In addition, obesity raises the risk for diabetes and vascular disease, two major causes of ED.

Can Diet and Lifestyle Improve Erectile Dysfunction?

You may never have thought that what you eat can affect ED. Think again. Processed and fatty foods interfere with circulation which definitely affects your ability to get and keep an erection.

Eating fatty foods also increases estrogen while reducing testosterone. Talk with Dr. Farjaad Siddiq about your levels of estrogen and testosterone.

What Foods to Incorporate in Your Diet

Eating real and natural foods can be helpful. What do we mean? Stick more with the Mediterranean diet.

  • Eliminate sugar and trans fats
  • Choose healthy fats like olive oil and fatty fish like salmon
  • Include beans and nuts, legumes, and veggies of all colors
  • Low glycemic fruits like berries
  • Pastured meats and poultry
  • Less red and processed meats

Additional Lifestyle Changes

  • Reduce alcohol intake and stop smoking (if you do). However, you can drink moderate amounts of red wine and sneak some dark chocolate into your diet.
  • Of course, there are many other causes of ED like anxiety and stress, so do whatever you can to control and reduce these emotional issues.

Erectile Dysfunction Specialist in Lake Charles, LA

If you are having issues maintaining an erection, getting erections sporadically, or not able to get them at all, contact Dr. Farjaad Siddiq at (337) 480-7499. During a discreet appointment, you’ll receive a review of your diet, lifestyle, and exercise habits, along with helpful treatments that can make a difference.

What Are Treatment Options for Erectile Dysfunction When Pills Don’t Work?

Posted on by Advanced Urology of Southwest Louisiana in ,

Erectile dysfunction is defined as the inability to get or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. With regard to sexual health, erectile dysfunction is the most reported problem by men to their doctor. It is estimated that as many as 100 million men worldwide have ED, however as many as 85% do not report it. Many men believe aging is the only cause, but that’s not exactly true. In most cases, men are prescribed the “little blue pill,” but what are treatment options for erectile dysfunction when pills don’t work?

Diagnosis of Erectile Dysfunction

If you are wondering about ED, see an experienced urologist who diagnoses and treats ED like Dr. Siddiq.

One test is a Penile Doppler Ultrasound which will diagnose the root cause of erectile dysfunction: blood flow in the penis. This is done accompanied by a physical exam, urine and blood tests, and maybe an overnight test.

Once other medical issues are eliminated, Dr. Siddiq can make a definitive diagnosis.

Pill Problems

Sometimes the pills for ED don’t work. In addition, certain men cannot take this prescription due to side effects and other health issues including: severe heart disease or heart failure, low blood pressure, and those who take nitrate meds for chest pains. There must be some other alternatives.

You can try lifestyle changes like stopping smoking, exercise, pelvic floor exercises, stress management, and diet.

If you are among the men who do not respond to pills for ED, cannot take them due to other health problems, and if lifestyle changes don’t help, there are other options.

What Are Treatment Options For ED Aside From Medication?

Medical science and technology always have an answer. If you have ED, maybe one or more of these alternatives will help.

  • Vacuum Erection Device (VED): Sometimes known as a penile pump. Using suction it manually pulls blood into the penis. A tension ring is slipped onto the base of the penis to maintain the erection. Side effects include some restriction of the ejaculation, a cold penis to the touch, and mild bruising.
  • Drug Pellets: Inserted into the tip of the penis like suppositories. They take about 10 minutes to work and can last 30 to 60 minutes. Side effects include a burning sensation and minor bleeding from the penis.
  • Penile Injections: These meds improve blood flow even better than pills. Side effects can include some bleeding and minor pain at the site of the injection, longer erections than desired, and scar tissue within the penis.
  • Penile Implants: A 30 to 45 minute procedure places a device inside the penis which you control. You then have the ability to create erections and decide how long they last. This option has high satisfaction results.
  • Shock Wave Therapy: High frequency, low intensity shock waves directed at the penis increase blood flow by eliminating plaque in existing vessels and stimulate new vessel growth. It is painless, and after a series of treatments, effects can last up to 3 years with minimal maintenance.

Erectile Dysfunction Specialist in Lake Charles, LA

Contact Dr. Farjaad Siddiq at (337) 480-7499 if you would like to discuss any of these treatment options for erectile dysfunction and find out if they could be right for you.

The Benefits of Aquablation for Treating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Posted on by Advanced Urology of Southwest Louisiana in ,

It seems every type of treatment for every kind of medical issue comes with side effects. Simple things like taking aspirin have side effects with some being positive and others negative. Certain treatments and procedures have their own set of side effects. Typically your doctor will help you weigh the risks vs the benefits of your decision. Any type of prostate procedure can cause side effects, most of which are not desirable. Maybe things are changing. Let’s learn about the benefits of Aquablation for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

What Is an Enlarged Prostate?

Known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, it is the term reserved for an enlarged prostate. Benign signifies it is not cancerous, but it creates many issues mostly for men over the age of 50.

They are frequently called lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) including:

  • Frequent urination
  • Difficulty starting to urinate
  • Weak stream
  • Feeling of an incomplete bladder emptying

Dr. Farjaad Siddiq may suggest a PSA blood test which tells what level of a protein antigen is in your bloodstream.

Some physicians take a “watch and wait” approach with meds to reduce the symptoms.

Exploring Treatment Options and Potential Side Effects

How long you watch and wait and continue to take medications is not set in stone.

There are several treatments and surgeries to relieve the symptoms of BPH as described above. Unfortunately, they can end up causing another set of symptoms including erectile dysfunction, bleeding, incontinence, frequent urinary tract infections, and semen flowing backwards into the bladder.

What Are the Benefits of Aquablation Therapy for BPH?

Aquablation therapy is a newer treatment for the symptoms of BPH. It answers the dilemma of waiting too long vs dealing with the symptoms.

If you are living with the LUTS of BPH, Aquablation therapy may be the answer for you. It is a one of a kind treatment using high definition imaging in real time, ultrasound guided and a robotic-assisted waterjet without heat. It is non-invasive since no incision is necessary as the water moves through the urethra.

The water ablates the problematic tissue in the prostate and protects other tissue in order to preserve your sexual functionality and continence.

Many clinical publications and studies have shown that:

  • 100% of patients had no effect on their sexual functionality, satisfaction, sexual desire or orgasms.
  • Over 99% of men did not have incontinence after the therapy.
  • 89% of men retained their ability to ejaculate normally.
  • 94% did not need any further treatments or surgeries 5 years after Aquablation.

There is no need to compromise sexual performance for reduced symptoms. Aquablation has fewer side effects than all the other surgical procedures.

Aquablation Therapy in Lake Charles, LA

If you are living with the symptoms of BPH, but want to sleep through the night again, take less breaks during your workday, and sit through an entire show or movie without having to “hit the head,” maybe Aquablation is your answer.

Contact Dr. Siddiq at (337) 480-7499 to schedule an evaluation and discussion of whether Aquablation is right for you.

How Low Testosterone Affects Your Health and Quality of Life

Posted on by Advanced Urology of Southwest Louisiana in

Testosterone plays a vital role in the body, impacting everything from bone density and muscle mass to mood and energy levels. While it’s commonly associated with men’s health, testosterone is essential for both males and females.

When testosterone levels drop—a condition often referred to as Low T—it can have significant physical, emotional, and social impacts, affecting overall life quality. Let’s explore how low testosterone affects your health, the symptoms to watch for, and available treatment options.

The Role of Testosterone in the Body

Testosterone is a hormone produced primarily in the testes in men and the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. It regulates key functions, including:

  • Development of muscle mass and strength
  • Maintenance of bone density
  • Red blood cell production
  • Fat distribution
  • Libido and sexual function
  • Mood and cognitive performance

Optimal testosterone levels help maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. When levels decline, either due to aging or medical conditions, the effects can be profound.

Common Symptoms of Low Testosterone

Low testosterone can manifest in various ways, including:

  • Physical Symptoms: Fatigue, reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, and decreased bone density.
  • Emotional Symptoms: Irritability, depression, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating.
  • Sexual Symptoms: Reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, and decreased sexual satisfaction.

These symptoms can lead to a diminished sense of well-being, affecting confidence, motivation, and social relationships.

How Low Testosterone Impacts Health

Low-T affects many aspects of health, including:

Muscle Mass and Strength

Testosterone plays a key role in maintaining muscle mass. Low T can lead to muscle loss and reduced strength, making physical activity and daily tasks more challenging.

Bone Density

Low testosterone contributes to reduced bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, particularly in older adults.

Cardiovascular Health

Studies suggest that low testosterone levels may be linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Maintaining healthy testosterone levels can support heart health and circulation.

Mood and Cognitive Function

Low T can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and brain fog, significantly impacting mental health and daily functioning.

Treatment Options for Low Testosterone

Fortunately, Low T can be managed effectively with the right treatment plan. Options include:

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

TRT involves administering testosterone via injections, gels, patches, or pellets to restore hormone levels. This treatment can improve energy, mood, libido, and muscle mass while reducing symptoms like fatigue and depression.

Lifestyle Changes

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can naturally boost testosterone levels. Key strategies include:

  • Regular exercise, particularly strength training
  • A balanced diet rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients
  • Stress management and adequate sleep

Regular Monitoring

It’s important to monitor testosterone levels regularly, especially if you experience symptoms of Low T. Regular check-ups can help tailor treatments to your individual needs and ensure long-term health.

Low Testosterone Treatment in Lake Charles, LA

Low testosterone can significantly impact your health and quality of life, but with early detection and proper management, you can regain vitality and well-being.

If you suspect you may have Low T, contact Dr. Siddiq at (337) 480-7499 to explore treatment options and take steps toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Choosing the Right Time for a Vasectomy

Posted on by Advanced Urology of Southwest Louisiana in ,

A vasectomy is a common and highly effective form of male contraception. It involves a surgical procedure where the vas deferens, which are the tubes that transport sperm from the testicles to the urethra, are cut, sealed, or blocked to prevent sperm from mixing with semen. This makes a vasectomy a permanent form of birth control for men who are sure they don’t want any more children.

Continue reading “Choosing the Right Time for a Vasectomy” →

Understanding UroLift: Your Guide to Enlarged Prostate Treatment

Posted on by Advanced Urology of Southwest Louisiana in ,

Living with an enlarged prostate—also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)—can significantly affect a man’s quality of life, causing symptoms like frequent urination, weak urine flow, or incomplete bladder emptying. 

Fortunately, advances in treatment have made it easier to manage BPH without invasive surgery. One promising option is UroLift, a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve symptoms quickly and effectively. Below, we look at UroLift’s uses, benefits, risks, and how it compares to other treatments.

Continue reading “Understanding UroLift: Your Guide to Enlarged Prostate Treatment” →

How to Talk to Your Partner About Getting a Vasectomy

Posted on by Advanced Urology of Southwest Louisiana in ,

If the prospect of having the talk about vasectomy with your partner or husband affects your blood pressure, you’re not alone. If you have never even broached the subject before, we want to give you some tips to make it as pain free as possible. Let’s dive in on how to talk to your partner about getting a vasectomy.

Continue reading “How to Talk to Your Partner About Getting a Vasectomy” →

Is There A Connection Between BPH And Prostate Cancer?

Posted on by Advanced Urology of Southwest Louisiana in ,

Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is an enlargement of the prostate gland in men. The prostate gland enlarges as a man ages causing inconvenient symptoms in the urinary tract. It is not really a dangerous condition, but it should be monitored to prevent complications in the bladder, kidneys, and urinary tract. Many men wonder if is there a connection between BPH and prostate cancer. Let’s find out.

Continue reading “Is There A Connection Between BPH And Prostate Cancer?” →

How Kidney Cancer Is Diagnosed and Treated

Posted on by Advanced Urology of Southwest Louisiana in ,

Most people diagnosed with kidney cancer are between 55 and 74, and twice as many men get kidney cancer as women. It is estimated that almost 82,000 new kidney cancer cases will be diagnosed in 2024 and over 14,000 people will die from the disease. It is more common among African Americans, American Indians, and Alaskan native people. Let’s take a look at how kidney cancer is diagnosed and treated.

Continue reading “How Kidney Cancer Is Diagnosed and Treated” →