WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF PROSTATE CANCER?
A man can actually have prostate cancer for many years before symptoms become apparent. In fact, these cancers frequently are first detected by an abnormality on a PSA blood test or as a hard lump in the prostate gland felt by the doctor during a routine digital rectal examination. When symptoms do occur, they may include one or more of the following: difficulty in passing urine, weak or interrupted flow of urine, urgency, frequent urination, especially at night, painful urination, blood in urine or semen, urine retention, and frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs. If you have one or more of these symptoms, it would be wise to visit your doctor for a check-up. For more information, see the symptoms of prostate cancer.
A man may have prostate cancer for several years before symptoms become apparent. When symptoms do occur, they may include one or more of the following: frequent urination (especially at night), inability to urinate, a weak or interrupted urine flow, pain or a burning feeling during urination, blood in the urine or semen, trouble starting or holding back urination, pain on ejaculation, frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs. Of course, these symptoms may also be caused by other conditions. If you have one or more of these symptoms, you should make an appointment with your doctor for a check-up.
There are usually no specific signs or symptoms of early prostate cancer – which is why prostate screening is so important. An annual physical examination, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, and digital rectal exam (DRE) provide the best chance of identifying prostate cancer in its earliest stages. The following are the most common symptoms of prostate cancer. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include: • weak or interrupted flow of urine • urinating often (especially at night) • difficulty urinating or holding back urine • inability to urinate • pain or burning when urinating • blood in the urine or semen • nagging pain in the back, hips, or pelvis • difficulty having an erection The symptoms of prostate cancer may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis. As a man gets older, his prostate may grow bigger and obstruct the flow of urine, or interfere with sexual function. An enlarged pr
Early stages usually produce no symptoms, but may include difficulty urinating, trouble maintaining a steady stream during urination, and starting and stopping while urinating. (For a complete list, click here.) Blood in your semen or urine and swelling in your legs are also common symptoms of more advanced stages.
