Why PSA Levels Fluctuate: Understanding the Antigen
Do you know what PSA is? Prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, is a protein produced by prostate cells in men. It is the same acronym is known to a test used for the detection of cancer in this organ. This is possible by measuring the amount of PSA present in the blood.
Elevated PSA levels can indicate a number of medical and non-medical conditions. Detecting some of the former can help in making the decision to implement natural methods to help reduce elevated PSA.
Why does PSA rise and fall?
The PSA test serves to measure the amount of PSA molecules in the blood. This protein can be created by both cancerous and non-cancerous prostate tissue. However, it is not known exactly why PSA rises and falls, as there are different variables related to its fluctuations.
Values that are considered "normal
To know if PSA is rising, normal or baseline levels should be observed, keeping in mind that PSA skyrockets with age. This is mainly due to the growth of the prostate induced by aging.
From the age of 25, the prostate begins to enlarge normally in all men and it is not yet known why this happens. Some experts believe it is related to hormonal fluctuations.
In any case, the estimate of a normal PSA level for each age group would reflect these values:
| Age | PSA (in ng/mL) |
| 40 a 49 | 0 a 2,5 |
| 50 a 59 | 0 a 3,5 |
| 60 a 69 | 0 a 4,5 |
| 70 or more | 0 a 6.5 |
What can high PSA levels indicate?
Even if the screening test shows normal levels, it is still important to be screened regularly. When a person is predisposed to prostate cancer, taking proper precautions is critical.
Elevated PSA is often an indicator of:
- Prostate cancer: with a PSA value between 4.0 ng/ml and 10.0 ng/ml, there is a 22% to 27% chance of cancer. When the numbers exceed 10 ng/ml, there is a 67% chance of cancer.
- Enlarged prostate: benignprostatic hyperplasia can make ejaculation and urination difficult. Along with swelling, it is not uncommon for people to experience an elevated PSA.
- Prostatitis: A bacterial infection can trigger this painful condition. It causes the prostate to become tender, swollen and affected by inflammatory processes. For many, particularly those with chronic prostatitis, this can trigger an elevated PSA.
- Irritation or infection of the urinary tract: when something, such as an infection, irritates the prostate, it can cause a high PSA.
- Sexual activity: any type of stimulation of the prostate can cause a temporary rise in PSA. According to Dr. David B. Samadi, "semen released during sex can cause PSA levels to temporarily rise, which can influence or affect test results."
- Medications: some, such as dutasteride or finasteride, can cause lower PSA levels, which would be reflected in the test.
So even if the PSA value is quite high, it does not necessarily mean that the individual has prostate cancer. However, the opposite can also be true: it is possible for the body to have prostate cancer with a normal PSA level, as this test is not always accurate (it is estimated that it can miss approximately 15% of cancers).
What is the perfect diet to take care of the prostate?
Why PSA rises and falls is not so clear, since there are many variables that affect this index and also too many unknowns to be solved. What is clear, however, is the positives of finding ways to reduce PSA levels.
Research shows that you can lower PSA levels and reduce your chances of developing prostate cancer (or prevent the recurrence of prostate cancer, if you have already had it) by changing your lifestyle, starting with a healthy diet and minimizing stress levels.
Foods and nutrients you can't afford to be without
A healthy eating plan with sufficient nutrients, vitamins and minerals can give prostate cells a boost in the right direction. A diet full of whole foods, healthy fats, vegetables, fruits and lean proteins may decrease the chances of getting cancer. Green tea, cruciferous vegetables and foods containing vitamin C should not be missed.
At the same time, try to avoid alcohol, salt, refined carbohydrates, sugars and processed foods.
Habits
Men who are physically active on a regular basis have a somewhat lower risk of prostate carcinoma. The more vigorous the activity, the better the results, particularly in reducing the likelihood of advanced prostate cancer.
However, it is recommended to refrain from exercise, such as cycling, for a few days or a minimum of 24 hours before the PSA test, as this could be the cause of higher than normal values appearing.
Another aspect to consider is that with stress, the PSA level increases. Meditation, yoga, deep breathing and physical activity can help regulate PSA levels.
A final habit to incorporate is sunbathing with proper protection and at off-peak hours. The more time one spends exposed to sunlight, the greater the vitamin D reserves in the body.
A deficiency of this vitamin is related to an increased risk of prostate cancer, so it is necessary to avoid its deficiency. In addition to that obtained by sunbathing, nutrition is key, (it is present in eggs and fish, and can also be taken as a supplement).
Supplements
When choosing a supplement it is advisable to focus on those with high proportions of natural ingredients. Another aspect to take into account is their silicon content. Silicon helps fight free radicals, is a powerful antioxidant and acts as an anti-inflammatory. For all these reasons, it is highly effective in slowing down the process of cellular aging which, in some cases, leads to diseases of the prostate or other organs.
Thus, by taking care of your diet, habits and focusing on exercise, relaxation and the use / consumption of natural products you can gain in health. Now that you know why your PSA rises and falls, it is time to take control of your life and fill your daily life with healthy habits.
