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Most prostate cancers grow slowly. As a result, prostate cancer can be present for years without causing any problems—it has few early warning signs or symptoms. In fact, men often don't know they have the disease. Because of the ‘silent’ nature of this cancer, doctors often rely on a blood test to check for the disease in its early stages. A specific physical exam can also help detect it early on. It's only as prostate cancer progresses that men usually begin to notice symptoms.
The closeness of the prostate gland to the urethra explains some symptoms of prostate cancer. The prostate gland surrounds the urethra—the tube that releases urine from the bladder. The prostate helps control the flow of urine. It also plays a role in sexual functioning. It supplies fluid that goes into semen. Prostate cancer causes the prostate to grow larger.
As prostate cancer grows, men may experience the following symptoms:
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Problems urinating. The urine stream may be weak, interrupted or slow. Prostate cancer could also trigger sudden urges to urinate. Men may also need to urinate more often, particularly at night. Pain, burning and having trouble emptying the bladder completely are other signs.
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Sexual performance problems. Getting an erection may be difficult and ejaculation may be painful.
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Fatigue. Prostate cancer may also contribute to a low red blood cell count. That's a condition called anemia. Red blood cells help deliver oxygen to cells throughout the body. Without enough red blood cells, you may feel short of breath, very tired, and dizzy.
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Bleeding. This is rare. But, some men with advanced prostate cancer may notice blood in their urine or semen. That's because the disease can damage blood vessels along the urinary tract, leaking blood into these fluids.
- Pain
. Prostate cancer that spreads to the bones or other parts of the body can cause pain. This may be in the hips, pelvis, back or chest.
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Weakness or numbness. Prostate cancer that presses on the spine can lead to weakness or numbness in the legs or feet. Men may also lose control of their bladder or bowels.
A noncancerous condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate) also can cause problems urinating and maintaining an erection. That’s why it’s important to see your doctor regularly as well as when you have symptoms. Doctors examine the prostate gland, order blood tests, and look at imaging test results to diagnose or rule out prostate cancer.