Prostate cancer refers to cancer that affects the prostate gland, a small gland situated between the bladder and penis in men.

Unfortunately, it is one of the most common types of cancer, with almost 200,000 new diagnoses each year in the United States alone. One of the main reasons why prostate cancer is so dangerous is that it is often difficult to detect in its early stages.

It is vital to be aware of the early warning signs of prostate cancer so that you can seek medical advice early enough and increase your chances of successful treatment.

1. Increased Urination Frequency

If you find yourself needing to urinate more often than usual, it could be a sign of prostate cancer. The cancerous growth can cause pressure on the urethra, which is the passage that carries urine from the bladder out of the body.

As a result, you may feel the urge to urinate more frequently than usual, even if nothing comes out when you try to go.

2. Weak Urine Flow

The presence of prostate cancer can narrow the urethra through which urine moves. This constriction can lead to a weak urine stream or difficulty in emptying your bladder.

You may also experience dribbling or feel like your bladder is not entirely empty even after urinating.

3. Blood in Urine or Semen

One of the more alarming signs of prostate cancer is blood in the urine or semen. Seeing blood in your urine or semen is a sign that something is wrong and requires urgent attention.

However, it is essential to note that this symptom may also occur in other conditions and not exclusively caused by prostate cancer. It is always good to seek medical advice from a qualified medical professional to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

4. Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction refers to a difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection. The presence of prostate cancer can interfere with normal sexual function by impinging on nerves and blood vessels that enable an erection.

While several factors can cause erectile dysfunction, it is vital to seek medical attention to rule out prostate cancer as the cause of the condition.

5. Painful Ejaculation

Another potential symptom of prostate cancer is painful ejaculation. This symptom arises when the cancerous growth has spread to the prostate gland’s surrounding tissue, causing inflammation and discomfort during ejaculation.

If accompanied by other symptoms, it may be vital to rule out prostate cancer as the cause.

6. Lower Back Pain

The lower back is a common site for pain in men with prostate cancer.

When prostate cancer spreads or reaches an advanced stage, it can cause compression of the spinal cord and nerves leading to pain in different parts of the body, including the lower back region.

7. Frequent Bone Fractures

Prostate cancer can spread to the bones in advanced stages. As a result, it can cause bone weakness, making them more susceptible to fractures.

Frequent bone fractures or a sudden onset of severe back pain that is uncharacteristic of you should prompt an immediate visit to your doctor.

8. Swollen Legs and Feet

As prostate cancer grows and spreads to the lymph nodes, you may experience swelling or fluid accumulation in the legs and feet. This swelling occurs as a result of lymphatic blockages that prevent fluids from flowing normally through your body.

9. Unexplained Weight Loss

Unexpected weight loss can be a sign of many illnesses, including prostate cancer. Cancer cells use up a lot of energy, which can cause rapid weight loss in cancer patients.

It is always good practice to consult your doctor if you lose weight suddenly or without explanation.

10. Constipation and Bowel Irregularities

In advanced cases where prostate cancer has spread to the rectum and nearby tissue, you may experience bowel irregularities such as constipation. The cancerous growth obstructs or puts pressure on the bowels, affecting digestion and bowel movements.

Your doctor can check to rule out prostate cancer if accompanied by other symptoms.

Conclusion

Early detection of prostate cancer is vital for successful treatment outcomes and quick recovery times. Knowing the early warning signs of prostate cancer can help you to detect and treat this condition early on.

If you experience any of these early warning signs, it is vital to seek medical assistance from your qualified medical professional. Do not ignore the symptoms or delay seeking medical advice as this may lead to severe complications and even death.