What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?

admin
March 8, 2024

Prostate cancer may not cause any symptoms in its early stages, and symptoms, if present, can vary widely among individuals. Some men with prostate cancer may experience symptoms similar to those of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or other prostate conditions, while others may not have any noticeable symptoms until the cancer has advanced. Common symptoms of prostate cancer may include:

  1. Urinary symptoms:
    • Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
    • Difficulty starting or stopping urination
    • Weak or interrupted urine flow
    • Urinary urgency or hesitancy
    • Pain or burning sensation during urination
    • Blood in the urine (hematuria)
  2. Erectile dysfunction: Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection (impotence) may occur in some men with advanced prostate cancer, although it can also be caused by other factors.
  3. Blood in semen: The presence of blood in semen (hematospermia) may occur in some men with prostate cancer but can also be caused by other conditions such as infection or inflammation of the prostate gland.
  4. Pelvic discomfort or pain: Some men with advanced prostate cancer may experience pelvic pain, discomfort, or pressure due to the spread of cancer to nearby tissues or organs.
  5. Bone pain or fractures: Prostate cancer that has spread (metastasized) to the bones may cause bone pain, particularly in the lower back, hips, or pelvis. Bone metastases can also increase the risk of fractures.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than prostate cancer, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), urinary tract infections, or other prostate conditions. However, any new or persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate management.

Prostate cancer screening, which may include a digital rectal examination (DRE) and a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, can help detect prostate cancer early, before symptoms develop. Men should discuss the benefits and risks of prostate cancer screening with their healthcare provider, particularly if they have risk factors such as a family history of prostate cancer or African American ancestry.