Know the Signs of Prostate Cancer

Doctors hold papers to check the sexual health of a male patient. Prostate cancer is the second-most common cancer in American men, just behind skin cancer. It can be very serious – but fortunately, most men are diagnosed with the disease before it has a chance to spread outside of the prostate, and most men diagnosed with prostate cancer don’t die from it. Are you showing any symptoms of prostate cancer?

What Is the Prostate?

The prostate is a gland that is only found in males; it makes fluid that is mixed with semen to help keep sperm healthy and to help them to move effectively. It is below the bladder and in front of the rectum, and it is about the size of a walnut in young men, although it can be larger in older men.

What Are the Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer?

There are a few factors that can increase your risk for developing prostate cancer, such as obesity and a family history of the disease. It is most common in men over the age of 50 and in Black men.

What Are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?

Many men with prostate cancer are diagnosed with the disease before they even start showing symptoms, through a routine rectal exam or abnormal blood test results. However, a man can start showing symptoms before his diagnosis – how severe these symptoms are can depend on where in the prostate the cancer is located and how advanced it is.

Symptoms can include:

  • Frequent urination, especially at night
  • Blood in the urine or semen
  • Pain or stiffness in the lower back or hips
  • Swelling in the lower extremities
  • A weak urine flow
  • Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection
  • Painful ejaculation

These symptoms, however, can also describe the symptoms of other common diseases and disorders. It is important to keep track of any symptoms or problems you are having and how often you have them so that you can discuss them with your doctor.

If you have noticed any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to call your doctor – early diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer is important. The Greater Hartford Urology Group has offices in Hartford, Enfield, and Glastonbury – call 860-522-2251 for an appointment today!

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