Digital Rectal Exam: What You Need to Know
A digital rectal exam (DRE) is a medical procedure in which a doctor or other healthcare provider inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to check the prostate gland for any abnormalities, such as enlargement, lumps, or tenderness. The prostate gland is a small, walnut-sized gland that surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body.
DREs are typically performed as part of a routine physical exam for men over the age of 50. They can also be used to diagnose or monitor prostate cancer, prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland), or other prostate problems.
How is a DRE performed?
A DRE is a relatively quick and painless procedure. It is typically performed in a doctor’s office or clinic.
During a DRE, you will be asked to lie on your side with your knees bent towards your chest. The doctor will then insert a lubricated, gloved finger into your rectum and gently massage the prostate gland. The doctor will be feeling for any abnormalities, such as enlargement, lumps, or tenderness.
The entire procedure usually takes less than a minute.
What are the benefits of a DRE?
DREs are a valuable tool for detecting prostate cancer and other prostate problems. They can help to:
- Detect prostate cancer early, when it is most treatable. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the United States. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve the chances of a cure.
- Monitor prostate cancer after treatment. DREs can be used to check for recurrence of prostate cancer after treatment.
- Diagnose prostatitis. Prostatitis is a common condition that can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty urinating. DREs can help to diagnose prostatitis and rule out other causes of these symptoms.
What are the risks of a DRE?
DREs are generally safe procedures. However, there are some potential risks, including:
- Pain. DREs can be uncomfortable, especially if you have prostatitis or other prostate problems.
- Bleeding. DREs can sometimes cause minor bleeding.
- Infection. DREs can rarely cause an infection.
Who should have a DRE?
All men over the age of 50 should have a DRE as part of their routine physical exam. Men who have a family history of prostate cancer or other prostate problems may need to start having DREs earlier.
What should I do if I have an abnormal DRE?
If your DRE is abnormal, your doctor will likely recommend further tests, such as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test or a biopsy. These tests can help to confirm a diagnosis of prostate cancer or other prostate problems.
Early detection and treatment of prostate cancer is essential for improving the chances of a cure. If you are over the age of 50, talk to your doctor about getting a DRE.
Secondary Keywords:
- Prostate exam
- Prostate cancer screening
- Prostate cancer
- Prostatitis
- PSA test
