Prostate Cancer Symptoms
In the following article, we will discuss the prostate cancer symptoms that you should know and some helpful treatment options for those who may have been diagnosed with cancer of prostate. Continue reading to learn everything that you need to know about this type of cancer referred to as, prostate cancer that affects men only.
This type of cancer originates in the prostate – part of the man’s reproductive organs. The prostate is a walnut size gland that makes seminal fluid for nourishing and transporting the sperm. Many times, this is a slow progressing cancer; therefore, if it is identified and diagnosed early, the outlook or prognosis will be much better. Cancerous tumors left untreated, can continue to worsen and can spread to other parts of the body, which is referred to as a metastatic tumor. Those over 50 should ask their doctor about regular prostate exam screenings.
Treatment can depend on a number of different factors including the growth and possible metastasis of the cancer, the overall health of the individual, and with consideration in regards to the side effects of the treatment. One of the more common treatments is prostate cancer radiation therapy using either, external beam radiation (EBRT) or brachytherapy. Both of these methods of radiation therapy can be effective methods of treatment, however, side effects can occur throughout the treatments. Side effects can include frequent or painful urination, an abrupt feeling of the need to urinate, rectal symptoms including pain from bowel movements, loose stools, even erectile dysfunction can occur.
Another effective method of treatment is hormone therapy. Hormone therapies that may be used include medications that stop testosterone from being produced in the body (LH-RH – Lupron, Eligard, Zoladex, Trelstar, Vantas, and Firmagon). Sometimes medications may be taken along with LH-RH drugs that prevent the testosterone from fueling the cancer cells even further (anti-androgens – Casodex and Nilandron). Moreover, the doctor may opt for prostate cancer surgery to remove the testicles (orchiectomy). Some side effects of hormone therapy may include loss of bone and muscle mass, lower sex drive, unexplained weight gain, hot flashes, and erectile dysfunction. These hormone therapy medications may also increase the risk of heart disease, including heart attack.
It is important to pay attention to the warning signs of the disease. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should contact a doctor right away. Some of the symptoms include difficulty urinating, lowered pressure in the stream of urine, blood in urine, swelling in the legs, pain or discomfort in the pelvis, or bone pain. We hope that by reading this article, you have been provided some helpful insight regarding the prostate cancer symptoms and other relevant information that you need to be aware of.