The prostrate is a walnut-sized gland that produces semen in the male reproductive system. It is located beneath the bladder and surrounds the upper part of the urethra. Prostate cancer is most common in elderly men. The disease has mild symptoms that many men live with for a long period of time before seeking medical treatment. The disease progresses slowly and the symptoms may not noticeable until the cancer is at an advanced stage. The disease can be treated successfully in its early stages, but it can be life-threatening when the cancer spreads outside the prostate gland.
Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
There are no clear early warning signs for cancer. However, once it spreads outside the prostate gland, the following symptoms can be observed: First, the patient will feel a frequent need to urinate, especially at night. He will also have difficulties in holding urine and will experience urine leaks when coughing or laughing. The inability to urinate while standing up is another symptom of prostate cancer. The cancer patient may also experience a painful sensation during ejaculation or urination, or he may have a weak urinary stream and urine or semen containing blood.
In the advanced stages, a prostate cancer patient will experience deep pain and stiffness in the pelvis, upper thigh bones, ribs, and lower back. Loss of weight and appetite are common symptoms. You should also visit a urologist for a prostate cancer checkup if your extremities are swollen. Weakening or paralysis of the lower limbs, nausea, fatigue and vomiting are notable prostate cancer symptoms. Swollen legs and difficulties in walking could also be symptoms.
Types of Prostate Cancer
There are different types of prostate cancer which can be divided into curable types and rare types. Curable types are less complicated and are usually treated successfully within a short time. Curable types of prostate cancer include; early localized, prostatic induced, obesity related, locally advanced and sexually transmitted diseases related to prostatic cancer.
The rare types of prostate cancer include primary and metastatic prostate cancer. Metastatic prostate cancer is a result of any combination of contiguous local spread, blood or lymphatic. On the other hand, primary cancer is caused by increase in age, diet with high fat content and chemical agents. Men whose families have a history of prostate cancer are more likely to get this type of cancer. You can learn more about prostate cancer by visiting St Pete Urology.