Prostate cancer is a common type of cancer that can affect men, but it may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, as the cancer grows, it can cause changes in the prostate gland that can lead to symptoms such as difficulty urinating, blood in the urine or semen, and pain or discomfort. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of prostate cancer that men should be aware of.
It is often treatable, especially if caught early. However, prostate cancer may not cause any symptoms in its early stages, making it important for men to be aware of the potential warning signs. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of prostate cancer that men should be aware of.
Early stages of prostate cancer
In the early stages of prostate cancer, there may be no noticeable symptoms. However, as the cancer grows, it can cause changes in the prostate gland that may eventually lead to the following symptoms:
Difficulty urinating
One of the most common symptoms of prostate cancer is difficulty urinating. Men may experience a weak or interrupted flow of urine, a need to urinate more frequently (especially at night), or a sudden urge to urinate that is difficult to control. In some cases, men may experience pain or discomfort while urinating.
Blood in urine or semen
Another potential symptom of prostate cancer is blood in the urine or semen. This may appear as pink or red discoloration, or as a visible amount of blood. Men who experience this symptom should see a doctor right away, as it may be a sign of prostate cancer or another condition that requires medical attention.
Pain or discomfort
As prostate cancer grows, it may cause pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, lower back, or hips. Men may also experience pain or discomfort during ejaculation.
Advanced stages of prostate cancer
If prostate cancer is left untreated or if it spreads to other parts of the body, it may cause additional symptoms. These may include:
Fatigue
Men with advanced prostate cancer may experience fatigue or a general feeling of weakness. This can be caused by the cancer itself, or by treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy.
Weight loss
Unexplained weight loss may also be a symptom of advanced prostate cancer. This can be caused by the cancer itself, as well as by side effects of treatments such as chemotherapy.
Bone pain
If prostate cancer spreads to the bones, it may cause bone pain or tenderness. This can be especially noticeable in the lower back, hips, or ribs.
Swelling
In some cases, prostate cancer may cause swelling in the legs or feet. This can be a sign that the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
READ: Reducing Your Risk of Prostate Cancer: Understanding the Risk Factors
READ: Prostate cancer: How it develops, symptoms and treatment
Prostate cancer may not cause any symptoms in its early stages, making it important for men to be aware of the potential warning signs. Difficulty urinating, blood in the urine or semen, pain or discomfort, fatigue, weight loss, bone pain, and swelling are all potential symptoms of prostate cancer. Men who experience any of these symptoms should see a doctor right away. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis for men with prostate cancer.