Cystoscopy for BPH Evaluation
As men age, they must stay up to date on their prostate and bladder health. If you start experiencing symptoms such as frequent urination, weak urine stream, or dribbling you may need to be evaluated for BPH or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. BPH is a condition that is common in older men and it can make life difficult. One way to evaluate for BPH is using a Cystoscopy. This procedure is commonly used to evaluate your urinary symptoms, bladder, and prostate health.
What is a Cystoscopy?
A Cystoscopy is a common test that is used to evaluate bladder health. It is safe and is done in the urologist’s office. During a Cystoscopy, a thin lighted tube is used to look in the bladder to evaluate the bladder and urethra. The whole procedure takes about 5 minutes and will allow your urologist to:
● Evaluate your bladder’s health
● Diagnose an enlarged prostate
● Discuss the best BPH treatment for you
● Rule out other issues of the bladder
What do I need to do before a Cystoscopy?
The most common things to know before undergoing a Cystoscopy include:
● Unlike some other procedures, there are no restrictions to eating or drinking before a Cystoscopy
● You may need to take an antibiotic and get a urine test before the procedure
● You must empty your bladder before the procedure
The Cystoscopy Procedure
A Cystoscopy procedure usually is not painful and is done in a few easy steps:
● The area around your urethra is cleaned thoroughly
● A topical anesthetic is applied to numb your urethra
● A thin tube that allows for visual is gently inserted through the urethra
● Your urologist then evaluates the health of the bladder and urethra
● The cystoscope is removed, and the procedure is over
After the procedure, Dr. Kenworthy will discuss your bladder and urethra’s health and discuss the best treatment options for what he diagnoses.
After the Cystoscopy
After the procedure, most men can return to normal activities within a few hours or up to a day later. Some men experience frequent urination, infection, blood in the urine, or pain with urination. These symptoms usually resolve within 24-48 hours.
If you develop a fever, bright red blood in the urine, blood clots in the urine, abdominal pain, or difficulty urinating, notify your urologist.
Understand the results of your Cystoscopy
After your Cystoscopy, your urologist will either schedule a follow-up appointment or discuss the results with you that day.
Cystoscopy at Kenworthy Urology
If you are experiencing symptoms of BPH or you are concerned about the health of your bladder and prostate, schedule with Dr. Kenworthy today.