Basic testing can include a urine test, a prostate exam and a blood draw. Once prostate cancer is reasonably ruled out, the evaluation can proceed with a focus on an enlarged prostate. While there are a number of tests that can be performed, one of the initial tests that could be done is the UroCuff®. The UroCuff® is a non-invasive option offered at Arkansas Urology. (Further information about the test is available at www.srsmedical.com)
This is basically a flow test that shows your urologist how well your bladder is functioning. During the test you will be asked to urinate into a specially calibrated machine (a flow meter). It is important to understand that the data that is gathered from this test is only one part of the evaluation. Additional testing may be eventually needed. However, the UroCuff® is a reasonable non-invasive starting point.
In summary, the symptoms you are having could be caused by a large prostate which is pressing on the urethra and/or a bladder that is not functioning properly. It is important for your urologist to be able to assess both the prostate and the bladder in order to determine the treatment that is best tailored to your particular condition.