I’m 55 this year and my friends keep telling me to go for a PSA test to check for prostate cancer… But I read online that high PSA doesn’t always mean cancer, and low PSA also doesn’t mean confirm safe. ...
However, if the above steps provide no relief, that generally means that the nail spike is pretty deep, and if the spike continues to be there, things can get worse. Fret not, in this day and age, we no longer need to take out the entire nail just to resolve an ingrown toenail. That is regarded as uRead more
However, if the above steps provide no relief, that generally means that the nail spike is pretty deep, and if the spike continues to be there, things can get worse. Fret not, in this day and age, we no longer need to take out the entire nail just to resolve an ingrown toenail. That is regarded as unnecessary, and will cause a much bigger wound for you to take care. The current treatment for ingrown toenails are mainly 3 option:
- First is known as a “slant back”, which is basically trimming the portion of the nail spike away without cutting too deep towards the root. This is helpful when the spike is not near the nail root at all, or the shape of the nail is largely normal.
- The second method is known as a “partial nail avulsion”, which basically removes a small portion of the nail all the way down to the nail root. Think of it like treating a wisdom tooth, you are just remove the tooth that is causing the problem, but the other teeth stay. After the nail is removed, we could also put in a chemical to stop that portion of the nail from growing back, so that will put an end to your suffering permanently. This method is generally recommended for cases where the spike is very close to the nail root, or the edge of the nail curves deeply into the flesh (resulting in recurring ingrown toenail)
- The third option is relatively new, known as “nail bracing”. This involves putting a “brace” over the nail plate to try and hold the shape of the nail such that it doesn’t grow into the flesh. This is only useful if the shape of your nail (at the base of the nail) is considered normal and not involuted (or curving into the flesh).
We hope this gives you a better idea on the management of ingrown toenail, and hope that you received help for your problem.
Benedict Khoo,
Principal Podiatrist, Straits Podiatry.
Website: http://www.straitspodiatry.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Straits.Podiatry
The decision to undergo prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing for prostate cancer screening is indeed a nuanced one, particularly at your age of 55. It’s commendable that you are seeking to understand the implications of the test before making a decision. Understanding PSA Testing 1. PSA Overview:Read more
The decision to undergo prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing for prostate cancer screening is indeed a nuanced one, particularly at your age of 55. It’s commendable that you are seeking to understand the implications of the test before making a decision.
Understanding PSA Testing
1. PSA Overview: PSA is a protein produced by both normal and malignant prostate cells. Elevated levels can indicate prostate cancer, but they can also arise from benign conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis. Conversely, some men with prostate cancer may have normal PSA levels.
2. Limitations of PSA Testing:
– False Positives: A high PSA level does not definitively indicate cancer. Many men with elevated PSA levels do not have prostate cancer, leading to unnecessary anxiety and further invasive testing.
– False Negatives: Conversely, some men with prostate cancer may have normal PSA levels, which can lead to a false sense of security.
– Overdiagnosis and Overtreatment: Many prostate cancers are indolent and may not require immediate treatment. Screening can lead to the diagnosis of cancers that would not have caused harm during a man’s lifetime, resulting in overtreatment and associated complications.
Recommendations for Screening
Given your age and the complexities surrounding PSA testing, here are some considerations to guide your decision:
1. Risk Factors: Assess your personal risk factors. If you have a family history of prostate cancer (especially in first-degree relatives), or if you are of African descent, your risk is higher, and discussing screening with your healthcare provider may be more urgent.
2. Shared Decision-Making: Engage in a detailed discussion with your healthcare provider. This conversation should cover:
– Your personal and family medical history.
– The potential benefits and harms of screening.
– Your preferences regarding knowing your cancer status and the implications of treatment options.
3. Age and Life Expectancy: At 55, you are at an age where many guidelines suggest beginning discussions about screening. However, consider your overall health and life expectancy. If you have significant comorbidities, the potential benefits of screening may be outweighed by the risks.
4. Informed Consent: If you choose to proceed with the PSA test, ensure you understand what the results may mean and the next steps should the results be abnormal. This includes understanding the possibility of further testing, such as a biopsy, and the implications of a cancer diagnosis.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision to undergo PSA testing should be personalized, taking into account your individual risk factors, preferences, and the potential implications of the results. It is essential to have an open dialogue with your healthcare provider, who can help you navigate this decision based on your specific circumstances. If you decide to proceed with the test, remember that it is just one piece of the puzzle in understanding your prostate health.
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