Elevated PSA: Causes, Testing, and What It Means for Your Health

What Is PSA and Why Is It Important?

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by the prostate gland. PSA levels are measured through a simple blood test and can help detect potential prostate conditions, including prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and prostatitis. While an elevated PSA does not always indicate cancer, it is a key marker that urologists use to guide further evaluation and treatment.

PSA is a critical tool to detect prostate cancers early while they still may be curable. By the time prostate cancer causes symptoms, it often is advanced and can be difficult to cure.

What Causes Elevated PSA?

Several conditions can lead to an increase in PSA levels, including:

✅ Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): A non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that can raise PSA levels. The bigger the prostate, the higher the PSA can go.
✅ Prostatitis: Inflammation or infection of the prostate that can cause temporary PSA elevation.
✅ Prostate Cancer: A malignant condition where PSA can be used for early detection.
✅ Recent Medical Procedures: A prostate biopsy or catheter placement can also cause temporary PSA elevation.

When Should You See a Urologist for Elevated PSA?

If your PSA levels are above normal for your age, your urologist may recommend additional testing. Age-specific PSA reference ranges help guide interpretation:

A rapid rise in PSA over time may be concerning, even if within the normal range. Your doctor will monitor PSA trends rather than a single value.

What Happens After an Elevated PSA Test?

If your PSA is high, your urologist may recommend:

Repeat PSA Testing – A second test confirms whether PSA remains elevated.
Free PSA Test – Helps decipher between benign conditions and potential cancer risk.
Prostate MRI – Provides a detailed image of the prostate to assess for suspicious areas.
Prostate Biopsy – Small samples of prostate tissue is taken to determine if cancer is present.

Is a High PSA Always a Sign of Cancer?

No! Most men with elevated PSA do not have prostate cancer. Research shows that only about 25-30% of men with PSA levels between 4-10 ng/mL are diagnosed with prostate cancer. However, early detection is key. Your urologist will use PSA trends, examination, ancillary testing, possibly imaging, and if necessary, biopsy results to determine the best course of action.

Prostate Cancer Risk and PSA Levels

If PSA is significantly elevated, further evaluation is crucial. The risk of prostate cancer based on PSA levels is estimated as follows:

How Can You Lower PSA Naturally?

If your PSA is slightly elevated but no immediate intervention is needed, your urologist may recommend:

Dietary Changes – A diet rich in tomatoes, cruciferous vegetables, and green tea may support prostate health.
️‍♂️ Exercise & Weight Management – Maintaining a healthy weight can help regulate PSA levels.
Reduce Inflammation – Avoid excessive alcohol, processed meats, and high-fat dairy.
Medications & Supplements – 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (Finasteride, Dutasteride) may lower PSA in some cases.

Why Choose Fore River Urology for PSA Testing & Prostate Health?

At Fore River Urology, we specialize in advanced prostate screening and treatment to provide accurate diagnosis and personalized care. Our team uses the latest data, techniques, and high-volume experience to provide state of the art prostate care.

Convenient Locations – Expert urology care in Portland, Maine
⏳ Fast Appointments – Get tested quickly, with same-week availability
Cutting-Edge Diagnostics – MRI, PSA kinetics, fusion biopsy, and personalized risk assessment

If you have concerns about elevated PSA levels, schedule an appointment with our expert urologists today.

Schedule Your PSA Consultation Today

Early detection saves lives! Contact Fore River Urology at 207-518-6600 or request online to discuss your PSA results and next steps.

Serving All of New England for comprehensive prostate health and urologic care.