Elevated PSA Levels: Impact of Illness and Medications

Elevated PSA levels?

Last year, my PSA level was 2.88.
A week before my check-up this year, I had a severe cold and visited the hospital three times.
My main symptoms were a runny nose, fever, and cough.
After the third visit to the doctor, about four days later, I went for my routine check-up at work and was shocked to see my new PSA level at 14.
It has been about three weeks since the check-up, and I went to a nearby clinic to have it retested; I will receive the results in a few days.
I would like to know if having a cold or taking cold medication can affect the PSA level.
Additionally, I have been experiencing nocturia and urinary frequency for a long time, but there has been no worsening of the condition.
Thank you, doctor, for your patient response.

Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/12/14

Dr. Cai Zhuorong reply Urology

PSA is primarily used for the diagnosis of prostate cancer, and common causes of elevated levels include benign prostatic hyperplasia, acute infection, or chronic inflammation.
If acute infection is ruled out, a biopsy may be considered to exclude prostate cancer.
The likelihood of prostate cancer at age 48 is relatively low; if a biopsy is temporarily deferred, treatment for urinary symptoms can be initiated, followed by blood tests for monitoring.

Reply Date: 2023/12/14

More Info

Elevated PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) levels can be a source of concern for many men, particularly when there is a sudden increase from a previous baseline. In your case, you reported a PSA level of 2.88 last year, which has now risen to 14 after experiencing a severe cold. This significant jump in PSA levels can understandably be alarming, and it's important to explore the potential causes and implications.

First, it's essential to understand that PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland, and its levels can be influenced by various factors, including prostate health, inflammation, and even certain medications. Infections, particularly those affecting the urinary tract or prostate, can lead to elevated PSA levels. Acute prostatitis, for example, is an inflammation of the prostate that can cause a significant rise in PSA. Given that you experienced a severe cold, it is possible that the stress on your body and any associated inflammation could have contributed to the increase in your PSA levels.

Regarding your question about whether a cold or the medications taken for it could affect PSA levels, the answer is somewhat nuanced. While common cold medications typically do not directly influence PSA levels, the overall health status of the body can have an indirect effect. For instance, if you were dehydrated or had a urinary tract infection as a result of your illness, these conditions could elevate PSA levels. Additionally, certain medications, particularly those that affect the prostate or urinary function, could also play a role. However, over-the-counter cold medications are generally not known to have a significant impact on PSA levels.

You also mentioned experiencing nocturia (nighttime urination) and frequency of urination, which can be associated with various conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, or even urinary tract infections. These symptoms, combined with your elevated PSA, warrant further investigation. It is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation, which may include a repeat PSA test, a digital rectal exam (DRE), and possibly imaging studies or a referral to a urologist.

In terms of management, if your PSA levels remain elevated upon retesting, your doctor may recommend additional diagnostic procedures, such as a prostate biopsy, to rule out prostate cancer. However, it is important to remember that elevated PSA levels do not automatically indicate cancer; they can be due to benign conditions as well.

In summary, while your recent cold and its associated symptoms may have contributed to the rise in your PSA levels, it is crucial to conduct further evaluations to determine the underlying cause. Regular monitoring and open communication with your healthcare provider are key in managing your prostate health. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical attention promptly.

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