What to Watch For and When to See a Doctor
Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer affecting men, especially as they get older. The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. Because prostate cancer often develops slowly, many men may not notice symptoms right away. However, recognizing the warning signs early can lead to quicker diagnosis and better treatment outcomes. Below are ten common signs of prostate cancer.
1. Frequent Urination
One of the earliest signs of prostate cancer is the need to urinate more often, especially at night. This happens because the growing tumor presses against the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body) or the bladder. The pressure can make you feel like you need to urinate even when your bladder isn’t full. If you notice that you’re waking up several times a night to go to the bathroom, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor.
2. Difficulty Starting or Stopping Urination
Men with prostate cancer often find it hard to start urinating, even when they feel the urge. This is because the prostate surrounds the urethra and, when it becomes enlarged, it can squeeze or block the flow of urine. Similarly, some men may have trouble stopping once they start, with urine dribbling even after they think they’re finished. These symptoms can also appear in non-cancerous conditions like an enlarged prostate, but they should still be checked by a doctor.
3. Weak or Interrupted Urine Flow
A weak stream or urine that starts and stops can be another indicator that the prostate is pressing on the urethra. This may make it difficult to empty the bladder fully, leading to discomfort and more frequent bathroom trips. Over time, this can increase the risk of urinary tract infections and bladder problems.
4. Pain or Burning During Urination
Pain or a burning feeling when urinating may signal inflammation, infection or irritation caused by prostate cancer. Although infections of the prostate or bladder can cause similar symptoms, cancer should be ruled out, especially if the pain is persistent and doesn’t improve with antibiotics.
5. Blood in Urine or Semen
Seeing blood in your urine (hematuria) or semen (hematospermia) can be alarming and it’s never something to ignore. While there are many possible causes for this symptom, including infections or minor injuries, it can also indicate prostate cancer. The blood might be bright red or have a brownish tint, depending on how long it has been in the body.
6. Painful Ejaculation
Some men with prostate cancer experience discomfort or pain during ejaculation. This can be caused by cancerous changes in the prostate tissue or pressure on nearby nerves. Any new or ongoing pain related to sexual activity should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
7. Erectile Dysfunction
Prostate cancer or its treatments can affect the nerves and blood flow that allow for an erection. While erectile dysfunction (ED) is common as men age, sudden or worsening issues may warrant medical attention, especially if other urinary or pelvic symptoms are present.
8. Pain in the Lower Back, Hips or Pelvis
As prostate cancer advances, it can spread (metastasize) to nearby bones. This can cause deep, persistent pain in areas such as the lower back, hips or upper thighs. Bone pain that doesn’t go away or gets worse over time should be checked as soon as possible.
9. Unexplained Weight Loss or Fatigue
Unintended weight loss and ongoing tiredness are general signs that something may be wrong in the body. In later stages of prostate cancer, the disease can cause a drop in energy levels and appetite. Fatigue may also come from anemia (low red blood cell count) or the body’s effort to fight the illness.
10. Swelling in the Legs or Feet
If prostate cancer spreads to the lymph nodes or blocks blood flow in the pelvis, fluid can build up in the legs or feet. This swelling, known as edema, may cause discomfort, tightness or a heavy feeling in the lower body. It can also appear alongside other late-stage symptoms.
Prostate cancer often develops silently, with symptoms appearing only when the disease has already advanced. Regular checkups and prostate screenings are key to catching prostate cancer early, when treatment is most effective.