Frequent Symptoms
Symptoms of prostate cancer are largely related to the anatomy of the prostate.
The prostate gland is located just below the bladder in the lower pelvis.
Urinary frequencyis one of the most common symptoms of prostate cancer.
Illustration by Verywell
There are many causes of nocturia, only one of which is prostate cancer.
With prostate cancer, a change in urinary habits is usually more significant than the habits themselves.
Most people have experienced hesitancy at some time, such as when feeling rushed in the bathroom.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Less Common Symptoms
Though not common, other symptoms of prostate cancer may also occur.
Blood in the semen may be bright red or just have a faint pink color.
If erectile dysfunction develops rapidly, it may be a cause for concern.
Metastases to bones in the back, hips, or ribs can cause pain that may be severe.
When the urethra is completely blocked by an enlarged prostate, it is referred to as acute urinary retention.
With a partial blockage, a man may instead experience chronic urinary retention.
If not relieved, urine can back up to the kidneys, leading to infection and kidney damage.
A complete inability to urinate is a medical emergency.
Bone Metastases
As noted earlier, the bones are the most common site of prostate cancer metastases.
Sometimes, in people who have not had screening, it may be the first symptom of the disease.
Treatment may include steroids, radiation, or surgery.
That said, when it comes to diagnosing prostate cancer, its best not to wait until symptoms appear.
Talk to your practitioner about the screening tests available.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
None should be considered normal.
Even erectile dysfunction should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
As with many cancers, earlytreatmentis associated with not only better outcomes but a reduction in treatment-related side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men in the U.S. Prostate cancer is very treatable, especially when caught early.
It has also been shown that men with diets very high in dairy and calcium have a higher risk.
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American Cancer Society.Can prostate cancer be prevented?
