Prostate Cancer Symptoms

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?

At the time of diagnosis most men with prostate cancer report no symptoms. When they occur, many of the symptoms of prostate cancer are related to constriction of the urethra and involve changes in urine flow. Prostate cancer can also cause pain in the pelvis or lower back and blood in the urine. Cancer that has spread can cause additional symptoms based on the location of spread.

Common symptoms of prostate cancer

Common symptoms of prostate cancer include:

• Bloody or pink-colored semen (hematospermia)
• Bloody or pink-colored urine (hematuria)
• Difficulty urinating and urinary retention
• Incomplete bladder emptying
• Pain in the pelvis or lower back
• Slow or weak urine stream
• Urinary leakage or dribbling

Symptoms that might indicate a serious condition

Prostate cancer can lead to serious conditions such as urinary tract infection, bleeding, and other complications based on the spread of the disease. Seek prompt medical care if you, or someone you are with, have any of these symptoms:

• Bloody or pink-colored semen (hematospermia)
• Bloody or pink-colored urine (hematuria)
• Difficult or painful urination, or burning with urination (dysuria)
• Foul-smelling urine
• High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
• Pale skin or pallor
• Swelling in the leg
• Unexpected weight loss

What causes prostate cancer?

Cancer occurs when abnormal cells reproduce in an uncontrolled fashion. The specific cause of prostate cancer is not known, but several factors that increase the risk of developing cancer of the prostate have been identified.

What are the potential complications of prostate cancer?

Complications of untreated prostate cancer can be serious as the disease advances. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your health care professional design specifically for you. Complications of prostate cancer include:

• Adverse effects of prostate cancer treatment
• Anemia (low red blood cell count)
• Bladder outlet obstruction
• Bone pain
• Broken bones and spinal cord compression
• Kidney failure
• Leg lymphedema (fluid collection and swelling due to blockage of lymphatic vessels)
• Low white blood cell counts and decreased resistance to infections
• Spread of cancer to other areas of the body such as the bones
• Urinary incontinence