Prostate Cancer Symptoms

There are usually no signs of prostate cancer. When symptoms occur, they may include urinary issues. More serious signs include unexpected weight loss.

Prostate Cancer Symptoms_Jeffrey Wilde

What are the signs or symptoms of prostate cancer?

During the early stages of prostate cancer, there are usually no symptoms. That’s why screenings and regular check-ups are important in catching cancer early, before it spreads outside the prostate.

Most prostate cancer is found as a result of prostate cancer screening tests, most commonly a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test and a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE).

In rare cases, prostate cancer can cause symptoms that include:

  • Strong urge to urinate immediately
  • Frequent nighttime urination
  • Pain and/or burning when urinating
  • Difficulty starting the urinary stream
  • A weak urinary stream once it starts
  • Dribbling after you’re finished
  • Difficulty having an erection
  • Pain when ejaculating
  • Blood in the urine or semen
  • Frequent urinary tract infections

Other more serious prostate cancer symptoms may include:

  • Unexpected weight loss
  • Pain in the lower back, genital, or pelvic area
  • Anemia
  • Fatigue

Experiencing these symptoms does not mean you have prostate cancer. Many of these symptoms are common with other prostate or urinary conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, which is an enlargement of the prostate), prostatitis, or overactive bladder.

Still, you should report any of these symptoms to your doctor and talk to your doctor about when you should get screened for prostate cancer.

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