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Digital Rectal Exam

All articles tagged with #digital rectal exam

health1 year ago

"Is Long-Term Zyrtec Use Safe? Expert Answers"

A reader asks Dr. Keith Roach about the safety of using Zyrtec indefinitely for interstitial cystitis, to which he responds that Zyrtec is very safe and can be a viable option for treating the condition. Another reader inquires about the necessity of a digital rectal exam (DRE) for prostate cancer screening, and Dr. Roach explains that while the DRE adds little information to the PSA test, it can still be performed if the patient requests it, as the harm is minimal.

health2 years ago

Decoding the Distinction: Heart Problems vs. Anxiety Attacks

Distinguishing between heart problems and anxiety attacks can be challenging due to overlapping symptoms. Panic attacks are characterized by abrupt changes in mental state, while heart disease symptoms, such as chest pain, are often triggered by exertion. A thorough history exam, blood pressure check, electrocardiogram, and blood tests can help in diagnosing the cause. Treatment options are available for panic disorder, but it is important to rule out cardiac or other medical conditions. The digital rectal exam has a modest benefit in detecting prostate tumors compared to the PSA test, and the decision to undergo it should be based on patient preference and understanding of the small benefit and nonexistent risk.