WHAT ARE THE MAIN PROSTATE CANCER SYMPTOMS?
Prostate cancer can sneak on men and they will not know it until late. There are no warning signs for early prostate cancer. Since prostate cancer does not push against anything, there is no pain and a person may not know about it for years. It is hence crucial for regular prostate cancer screening.
What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?
The tumour causes the prostate gland to swell and cancer spreads beyond the prostate and causes many symptoms. These symptoms include an urge to urinate often, trouble in starting and stopping a stream of urine, the urine stream will be sometimes weak, or it may start or stop, pain and burning when you urinate, pain and burning when you ejaculate, blood in the urine and semen, pressure or pain in the rectum, pain and stiffness in the lower back, pain in the hips, pelvis and thighs.
All these are not directly the symptoms of cancer but signs of cancer growth blocking the prostate. These symptoms can also occur if you suffer from enlarged, noncancerous prostate or have a urinary infection.
Symptoms of advanced prostate cancer
Specific symptoms are typical of advanced prostate cancer. A dull, deep pain accompanied by stiffness in the lower back, ribs, pelvis and thighs, especially in the bones of these areas. Sudden loss of weight and appetite, fatigue, nausea or vomiting is also signs of advanced cancer. Swelling in the lower extremities, paralysis of the lower limbs is also seen. You may also have constipation and bowel problems in the advanced stages of prostate cancer.
When to consult your doctor?
The first sign that you are having a problem is when you experience trouble urinating, or you feel that urination is painful and different from usual. Immediately you should consult your doctor who will examine you for prostate gland problems and determine whether it is enlarged, inflamed with an infection or cancerous growth. If you have lower back pain, pain in the pelvis, weight loss, swelling in your legs or weakness and a hard time walking, then you should consult your doctor and get yourself examined for prostate too.
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