Prostate Cancer- Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Posted by Nammo on August 26th, 2016

Prostate cancer is that form of cancer that is discovered in a man’s prostate. Prostate is actually a small walnut shaped gland which indulges in producing the seminal fluid for nourishing and transporting sperm. It is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer found in men. This form of cancer typically grows slowly and primarily remains limited to the prostate gland, where it may not lead to severe harm. Some forms of prostate cancer typically grow slowly and not require any treatment or just minimal treatment is required. Other forms of prostate cancer can spread swiftly and aggressively.

Symptoms
In the early stages, the symptoms may not be noticed. In the advanced stages, some of the following signs and symptoms may be seen:

Bone pain
Discomfort in the pelvic area
Blood in the semen
Decreasing force in urine stream
Trouble urinating

Tests and Diagnosis

When it comes to prostate cancer diagnosis, some medical organizations advise men to consider screening of prostate cancer in their 50s. The men who have high risk factors for this form of cancer, they need to test for it earlier. You can visit a prominent doctor in your area and know more about the risks and benefits of screening. With the advice of your doctor, you can determine whether the screening is right for you or not.

The screening tests for prostate cancer include Digital Rectal Exam, where in the doctor will insert a gloved and lubricated finger into your rectum for examining your prostate. If the doctor finds anything unusual in the size, shape or texture of your gland, they may advice you additional tests. Another test involves drawing a blood sample from your vein in your arm and analyze it for Prostate-specific Antigen, a substance which your prostate gland naturally produces.

Treatment

There are various types of prostate cancer treatment options. The type which you choose may depend on the growth of the cancer and how it affects your overall health.

Instant Treatment may not be required
The men who are diagnosed in very early stage of cancer, the treatment may not be required instantly. Some of the men may not even require treatment ever. Instead the doctors may advise active surveillance, including timely biopsies, rectal exams, regular follow-up blood tests etc.

Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy for prostate cancer is done for stopping your body from producing the male hormone testosterone. The fact is that the cancer cells are dependent on the testosterone for growth. When the supply of the hormones is cut, it can result in dying of the cancer cells or growing extremely slowly.