What Are the Signs of Prostate Cancer?

Posted by George Suarez on September 26th, 2018

It is very rare that prostate cancer causes symptoms in its early stages. Because a growing tumor doesn't press against surrounding anatomy except for the urethra, it doesn't necessarily cause pain. With prostate cancer being the most frequently diagnosed malignancy in America, the American Cancer Society now recommends that men be screened for prostate health at age 40 instead of 50 for early detection. Prostate cancer is very treatable and men are urged to seek medical advice as soon as there are warning signs of prostate cancer. Unfortunately, the signs often mimic those of other prostate conditions that also need medical treatment.

Warning Signs of Prostate Cancer

A prostate screening comprises a digital rectal exam, a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, and a transrectal ultrasound. Few aggressive prostate cancers escape this exam. Symptoms to report to a physician: 

• Frequent urination, especially at night, sometimes with great urgency
• A weak, dribbling stream of urine or an interruption of urinary flow
• Difficulty starting or holding back urination, or a loss of control
• Painful or burning urination
• Blood in the urine or semen
• Pressure or pain in the rectal area
• Pain or stiffness in the lower back, pelvis, hips or thighs
• Difficulty in obtaining an erection
• Painful ejaculation or a decrease in ejaculatory fluid

How Often Should You Be Examined for Prostate Health?

According to a new European study, it is advisable to screen prostate health every 4 years after age forty, however, if there are symptoms, do not ignore. Make an appointment as soon as possible. Urinary symptoms don't always indicate prostate cancer. A patient may be experiencing prostatitis which is swelling and inflammation of the prostate or benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) that can occur due to aging. BPH can cause many of these symptoms as it is the enlargement of the prostate, a walnut-sized structure that anatomically encircles the urethra creating urinary flow and urgency symptoms. Again, BPH can be treated successfully, often with drugs that simultaneously lower blood pressure if both occur in the same patient. 

Difficulty achieving or obtaining an erection is most often caused by aging or other medical conditions such as diabetes, smoking, or cardiovascular disease. Your physician will often recommend losing weight, or other health measures to treat the underlying conditions that affect your sexual health. They may prescribe medication for erectile dysfunction. Seek medical advice and don't ignore signs of prostate cancer or other prostate conditions. Ninety percent of prostate cancer can be cured when detected early.