RESOURCES FOR PATIENTS
Please find below some useful information and self help tips on various conditions and symptoms, with original articles and other links to external sites including the British Association of Urological Surgeons, Cancer Research UK, Prostate Cancer UK and more. Please scroll through then select your item of interest or press "more" at the top right hand corner of the screen.
PROSTATE CANCER
Prostate cancer is the commonest cancer in the UK, and the second most common cause of cancer death in men. If you have affected close relatives your risk may be higher also. Early detection is key to cure, but at the same time avoiding overtreatment can protect you from side effects. Recent developments such as advanced MRI scans, targeted biopsies, careful monitoring if applicable and a range of treatments including nerve sparing robotic surgery (if required) can all aim to give you the reassurance you need.
MANAGEMENT OF URINARY SYMPTOMS
Often urinary symptoms can be sorted out by simple discussion and lifestyle measures. Both men and women suffer in equal measure, and a thorough evaluation usually gives options for management. Simply avoiding caffeine and looking at fluid intake can be helpful, but tests such as a flow study or scan to check bladder emptying, a diary of intake and output, some blood and urine tests, a careful examination and occasionally a bladder inspection using a flexible telescope under local anaesthetic can all help tailor advice specifically for you.
MINIMALLY INVASIVE TREATMENT FOR BENIGN PROSTATIC ENLARGEMENT - UROLIFT AND REZUM
Many men struggle on with their urinary symptoms, accepting it as part of getting older or worried about the side effects of treatment. There are now several new options which can be delivered without having to stay in hospital, often under only local anaesthetic, with less side effects also. Other simple measures can also be useful, such as simply avoiding caffeine, and medication can be helpful. A thorough assessment and treatment plan can be tailor made for you.
BLOOD IN THE URINE
If you see blood in the urine it should be investigated, as it can be a sign of serious problems with the kidneys, bladder or prostate. There are a range of potential causes, but it should not be ignored. A finding of a trace of non-visible blood is much less commonly serious, but still needs investigation to exclude problems. Usually some blood tests, a scan and a bladder examination under local anaesthetic with a narrow flexible telescope are required.
BLADDER CANCER
If you've been diagnosed with bladder cancer, there can be a wide range of options available to you depending on the nature of the disease. This can be confusing but this page will explain what is available in different situations, and provides information about the treatments plus links to other resources.
