Hello. Just posting this because I'm anxious about my symptoms. I know I need to be patient and that I'm over-worrying, but it feels better to write this down. Sorry if it's a bit long.
I'm 52. I've been on Tamsulosin for 18 months after seeing a consultant urologist because I was having problems with peeing (ongoing for a number of years). At the time he said my prostate wasn't especially large for my age and the peeing issues may be related to the structure of my bladder. But there was no follow-up.
Fast forward to November 2018: visited GP complaining of pretty constant lower back pain and hip pain. Was referred for X-Ray and blood tests, including PSA (we didn't discuss prostate issues at all). And started taking painkillers.
Results: PSA raised from previous test, but not very high, 4.8. Some degeneration in hips, mild arthritis which my GP said may explain pain in my hips and lower back. However, my GP wanted me to see a urologist after we discussed my ongoing issues with peeing (despite Tamsulosin there's been some worsening of symptoms).
I saw the urologist last week. I do have an enlarged prostate, though there seemed to be no hardness. I'm going to have a cytoscopy, another PSA test in a few weeks time (after I get back from a holiday), and then likely a biopsy (I think this depends on the results of the PSA test).
I think my anxiety stems from the combination of symptoms. My prostate appears to have grown significantly in 18 months (which may explain the increase in PSA), and the pain continues, particularly in my lower back.
It's difficult to talk to my partner, who tends to be a worrier. And I don't want to talk to friends or other family members before there is a clearer diagnosis. So I hope it's OK to have my little moan on here. :-)