Prostate Cancer: The Warning Signs
When it comes to prostate health, it’s important to be aware of the warning signs that could signal prostate cancer.
Chances are if you’re over 50, you’re familiar with this health issue that affects so many men each year.
Second, only to skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among American Men.
In fact, the American Cancer Society’s estimate for the number of prostate cancer cases in the United States this year is about 268,490.
Their statistics also show that one out of eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. And in roughly six out of 10 cases, the diagnosis is in men that are over 65.
So what are the early signs and symptoms of prostate cancer?
Early symptoms of prostate cancer can mirror those of an enlarged prostate which is typically benign and treatable. Often patients with both will experience:
Difficulty Urinating
Loss of Bladder Control
Decreased flow of urine stream
Frequent Urination
Inability to empty bladder completely
However, signs of prostate cancer will usually include: Some early prostate cancer signs include:
Burning or pain during urination
Blood in urine
Blood in semen
Erectile dysfunction
Painful ejaculation
Warning signs that are specific to prostate cancer will usually include:
Burning or pain during urination
Blood in urine
Blood in semen
Erectile dysfunction
Painful ejaculation
If the cancer is left untreated and becomes more advanced, some of the symptoms related to that are:
Swelling in legs or pelvic area Numbness or pain in the hips, legs, or feet Bone pain that persists or leads to fractures
All of this is to say that if you are experiencing one or more of the warning signs of prostate cancer, it is highly recommended that you consult a qualified physician immediately.
Though prostate cancer is extremely common, there is a chance that your symptoms may be indicative of another, less serious condition. Either way, getting more information is always the best approach- and if it is prostate cancer, it is much easier and more successfully treated when detected early on.
For more information on prostate cancer and how it is diagnosed, check out the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s page on prostate cancer.
