Preparing for an appointment

You might be referred directly to a doctor who specializes in urinary issues (urologist).

What you can do

• Make a list of your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment.
• Keep track of how often and when you urinate, whether you feel you're completely emptying your bladder, and how much liquid you drink.
• Make a list of your key medical information, including other conditions you might have.
• Make a list of all medications, vitamins or supplements that you're currently taking.
• Write down questions to ask your doctor.

Questions to ask your doctor

• Is an enlarged prostate or something else likely causing my symptoms?
• What kinds of tests do I need?
• What are my treatment options?
• How can I manage other health conditions along with an enlarged prostate?
• Are there any restrictions on sexual activity?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions during your appointment.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them might give you more time to address any concerns. You might be asked:

• When did you first begin experiencing urinary symptoms? Have they been continuous or occasional? Have they gradually worsened over time, or did they come on suddenly?
• How often do you urinate during the day, and how often do you need to get up at night to urinate?
• Have you ever leaked urine? Do you have a frequent or urgent need to urinate?
• Is it difficult for you to begin urinating? Do you start and stop when urinating, or feel like you have to strain to urinate? Does it ever feel like you haven't completely emptied your bladder?
• Is there any burning when you urinate, pain in your bladder area or blood in your urine? Have you had urinary tract infections?
• Do you have a family history of enlarged prostate, prostate cancer or kidney stones?
• Have you ever had any trouble getting and maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction), or other sexual problems?
• Have you ever had surgery or another procedure that involved insertion of an instrument through the tip of your penis into your urethra?
• Are you taking any blood thinners, such as aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven) or clopidogrel (Plavix)?
• How much caffeine do you consume? What is your fluid intake?