Understanding Prostate Cancer Symptoms and Its Early Signs

Prostate cancer, the second most common type of cancer among men after skin cancer, is a condition where cells in the prostate gland grow uncontrollably. Nestled below the bladder, the prostate is a gland responsible for creating seminal fluid. Unlike other aggressive forms, most prostate cancers grow slowly and can be managed effectively even when they spread. The most common form is adenocarcinoma.

By 2016, prostate cancer had ascended to be the fifth most common type of cancer among the male population in India. Unfortunately, there has been a notable surge in age-standardised incidence rates over recent years. Furthermore, in major metropolitan cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Pune and Thiruvananthapuram, prostate cancer holds the infamous distinction of being the second leading cause of cancer among men.

Common Prostate Cancer Symptoms

Prostate cancer can be difficult to detect early on. However, it's important to keep an eye out for potential signs to ensure prompt treatment and better health outcomes. Let's discuss some of the common symptoms associated with prostate cancer:

Dysuria (Pain or Burning When Peeing)

One of the potential symptoms of prostate cancer, often overlooked by many, is dysuria. This involves:

• Experiencing a sensation of pain or burning when peeing.
• Frequent visits to the toilet, especially during night-time.
• Feeling discomfort and difficulty while passing urine.

Blood in the Urine & Semen

• One of the noticeable prostate cancer symptoms involves blood presence in urine or semen.
• This condition can indicate potential problems with the prostate, including cancer.
• Seeing a doctor promptly is essential if a person observes such symptoms.

Trouble Urinating

• Experiencing difficulty while urinating
• Noticeable changes in the urinary stream, such as less force or irregular flow.
• Frequent urge to urinate, especially during the night.

Bone Pain

One of the symptoms that might indicate prostate cancer is bone pain.

• It's usually experienced in the lower back, hips or thighs.
• Intensity varies from dull discomfort to sharp aches.
• Continuous pain or sudden occurrence should be reported to the family doctor.

Erectile Dysfunction

One key sign of prostate cancer can be erectile dysfunction (ED). This symptom might include:

• Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection
• Less firmer erections
• Decreased sexual desire

Pain in the Lower Back & Hip

Prostate cancer can manifest in several ways. One key symptom often reported is discomfort in the lower back and hip.

This pain:

• Typically persists for an extended period.
• Fluctuates in intensity but never disappears completely.
• Can affect mobility, making normal movements challenging.

Painful Ejaculation

• One of the primary prostate cancer symptoms includes experiencing painful ejaculation.
• This discomfort might be a result of tumour growth in the prostate gland, affecting sexual function.

Interrupted Flow of Urine

One common symptom of prostate cancer is an interrupted flow of urine. This could manifest as:

• Difficulty starting or stopping urination.
• A weak or slow urinary stream.
• Increased frequency, especially during the night.

Prostate Cancer Symptoms (When Spread Outside the Prostate Gland)

Prostate cancer is a commonly occurring disease in men. When the cancer cells spread outside the prostate gland, the patient experiences various symptoms which may include:

Swelling

• Swelling or fluid accumulation may occur in different parts of the body such as legs, feet or pelvic area.
• It can also lead to discomfort and difficulty in movement.

Unexplained Weight Loss

• Rapid and unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of prostate cancer spreading beyond the prostate gland.
• This happens due to changes in metabolism caused by cancer cells growing rapidly in the body.

Pain in the Back, Shoulders or Other Bones

• When prostate cancer spreads to the bones, it often leads to pain in different parts of the body.
• The pain can be persistent or intermittent and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain.

Fatigue

• Fatigue or excessive tiredness is another common symptom when prostate cancer has spread outside the gland.
• This fatigue is not relieved by rest and could be a result of both emotional stress and physical changes due to disease progression.

Bowel Habits Change

• Changes in bowel habits such as constipation, diarrhoea or narrow stools can also be a sign of advanced prostate cancer.
• This happens because the tumour might press on the large intestine causing these changes.

While these symptoms do not definitively indicate that prostate cancer has spread outside the gland, they are possible signs that warrant further medical investigation.

Importance of Regular Check-ups

Regular medical check-ups, particularly for men, are essential. One of the significant areas where this proves vital is in the screening for prostate cancer. Here's why:

• Prostate cancer is a major health concern among men in India. Early detection through regular screenings can identify those cancers that pose a high risk of spreading.
• Regular screenings can detect aggressive cancers before they have a chance to spread, potentially minimising the risk of death from prostate cancer.
• Healthcare professionals, such as family doctors and specialists, play an indispensable role in these screenings. They guide individuals through the decision-making process related to prostate cancer screenings, providing important information about its benefits and risks.
• These professionals help individuals make informed decisions based on their unique health status and preferences.
• Emphasis is placed on shared decision-making between doctors and patients. This ensures that individuals fully understand the implications of screening and can make personalised decisions about their health.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices to Reduce the Risk of Prostate Cancer

To diminish the risk of prostate cancer, embracing healthy lifestyle habits is vital. Here are a few choices one can make:

Dietary Changes

• Opt for a low-fat diet and increase the intake of fruits, vegetables and antioxidant-rich foods, like spinach, strawberries and tomatoes.
• Limit the consumption of red and processed meat to a maximum of 70g per day.
• Steer clear from diets high in saturated fat and low in fibre. Instead, choose omega-3 fats found in almonds, flaxseeds and salmon.
• Infuse meals with high-fibre foods such as whole wheat bread, apples, bananas, legumes and broccoli.

Physical Activity

• Engage in regular physical activity, targeting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly.
• Maintain an optimal weight through consistent exercise and a balanced meal plan.

Other Lifestyle Changes

• Monitor and maintain adequate vitamin D levels as research suggests it may reduce prostate cancer risk.
• Quit smoking and moderate alcohol consumption.
• Avoid charred meat due to its potential carcinogenic effects.

Screening and Early Detection

• Adhere to prostate cancer screening guidelines for early detection especially if one is at higher risk due to family history or genetic predisposition. Monitoring prostate cancer symptoms should be a part of the routine health check-ups.
• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: This blood test measures the level of PSA in the blood, a protein produced by the prostate gland. Increased PSA levels can indicate prostate cancer, although they may also result from other conditions such as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis.
• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): During a DRE, a healthcare provider inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for any irregularities in the texture, shape, or size of the prostate gland. This test can detect abnormalities that suggest the presence of cancer.

Remember, early detection is key to successful treatment of prostate cancer. These symptoms may seem troubling but understanding them can help individuals take the right course of action. Don't ignore these signs - your health and wellbeing matter. Always consult with your doctor if you notice any such changes, as they can guide you about further necessary tests and treatments.

Warning Prostate Cancer Signs You Shouldn't Ignore

Patients should not ignore the symptoms of prostate cancer. If left ignored, they can develop into advanced diseases.

Signs That Require Immediate Attention

Recognising and acting on warning signs early is important to prevent cancer from spreading.

• Severe pain or discomfort: Intense pain in the lower back, hips, or thighs may indicate that cancer has spread to the bones, suggesting advanced disease that requires immediate check-ups.
• Unexplained weight loss: Sudden and unexplained weight loss can serve as a general sign of cancer, including prostate cancer. This symptom and other warning signs mean the patients must immediately consult with a doctor.

When to See a Doctor

Patients experiencing any of the above symptoms should consult a specialised doctor. Ignoring the symptoms will worsen it over time. Discussing prostate cancer risk factors with a doctor will help you know about the problems in your body and their seriousness. This eventually leads to early detection of the disease, improving the chances of successful treatment.

Conclusion

Although prostate cancer is a dangerous disease, by taking the necessary steps, you can explore the available prostate cancer treatment options that are suitable for you. Reach out to a urologist at BLK Max to discuss your concerns and explore the best path forward for your health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the different stages of prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer progresses in four main stages, starting from stage I, a small, localised condition, to stage IV where the disease has spread to other parts of the body.

2. What are the treatment options for prostate cancer?

Treatment options typically include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy or a combination of these depending on the stage and aggressiveness of the disease.

3. Who is at risk for developing prostate cancer?

Men aged over 50, those with a family history of prostate or breast cancer and African-American men have higher risk factors for developing prostate cancer.

4. At what age should men start screening for prostate cancer?

Screening typically begins at 50 years for most men but may start earlier for high-risk individuals; early detection significantly helps in managing prostate cancer symptoms.

5. What is the life expectancy of a man with prostate cancer?

The survival rate greatly depends on the stage at which it's diagnosed; nearly all men diagnosed with localised or regional stage survive for at least five years.

6. What are the potential complications of untreated prostate cancer?

Untreated prostate cancer can lead to severe health complications including urinary problems, erectile dysfunction and may eventually spread to bones causing immense pain.

7. Are there specific dietary recommendations for individuals with prostate cancer?

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and lean protein can aid in managing and preventing advancement of prostate cancer; conversely, avoid high-fat foods and excessive consumptions of dairy products.

8. How is prostate cancer diagnosed?

Prostate cancer diagnosis involves a series of tests including digital rectal examination (DRE), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and biopsy if needed.

9. Can prostate cancer be cured if detected early?

Yes, early-stage localised prostate cancer has a high cure rate with surgery success significantly decreases as the disease becomes more advanced.

10. Can prostate cancer spread to other parts of the body?

Yes, advanced stages of prostate cancer can metastasise to bones and other organs, making treatment more complex and the prognosis less favourable.

11. What lifestyle changes can help prevent prostate cancer?

Patients can consider lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking.

12. Is prostate cancer only a concern for older men?

Prostate cancer is more common in older men, but younger men, especially those with a family history, should also be vigilant.

13. Who is the best doctor to treat prostate cancer?

A urologist specialising in urinary tract diseases is typically the best doctor to treat prostate cancer.