Prostate Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
Prostate cancer is a common concern among men as they age, and it often raises questions about the symptoms and detection methods. This informative blog will shed light on the symptoms associated with prostate cancer and how medical professionals diagnose this condition.
To make this blog more useful and beneficial for the readers the insights used to draft this blog have been taken from expert urologists like Dr. Niren Rao, a renowned urologist for Prostate Cancer Surgery in Delhi. It would be ideal to start by understanding the symptoms of prostate cancer.
Common Symptoms
Many individuals wonder whether they are suffering from prostate cancer or if the symptoms they experience are due to other reasons, such as benign prostate enlargement. Some common symptoms include:
- Frequent Urination
A persistent need to go to the bathroom repeatedly to urinate is a common symptom. This frequent urge can disrupt daily routines.
- Weak Urine Stream
Patients may notice a weakened urine stream, which requires extra effort to pass urine effectively.
- Incomplete Emptying
The sensation of incomplete bladder emptying is often present. Patients may feel that some urine remains inside even after urination.
- Nocturia
Frequent nighttime urination is a typical symptom, with patients waking up three to four times or even more during the night to urinate.
- Intermittency
Urine flow may start and stop irregularly, leading to a start-and-stop pattern during urination.
Specific Symptoms
Prostate cancer can present specific symptoms, particularly if it has spread to other parts of the body:
- Bone Pains
Bone pain can occur when prostate cancer spreads to the bones. This can be a noticeable symptom.
- Hematuria
In some cases, patients may observe the passage of a small amount of blood in their urine.
Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer
To determine whether these symptoms are indicative of prostate cancer, a thorough medical evaluation is necessary. Here are the diagnostic steps:
- Digital Examination
A urologist will perform a digital rectal examination to assess the prostate’s condition. They will check if the prostate feels hard, nodular, or soft and smooth.
- PSA Test
A blood test called Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) will be conducted. Elevated PSA levels, along with other symptoms, may raise suspicion.
- Biopsy
If the PSA levels are high and the prostate feels abnormal upon examination, a biopsy is often recommended. This biopsy is performed under ultrasound guidance to extract tissue samples for examination.
Treatment of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer, when detected early, can often be successfully treated. Treatment options include surgical removal of the prostate gland as well as various therapies, injections, and oral medications. Even in advanced cases, effective treatments are available.
Conclusion
Understanding the symptoms and diagnostic methods for prostate cancer is crucial for early detection and successful treatment. If you or a loved one experiences any of the mentioned symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional i.e., a skilled urologist promptly. Regular check-ups and screenings can contribute to the early detection of prostate cancer and improve treatment outcomes. Moreover, if one is looking for the Best Urologist in Delhi, they can consult with Dr. Niren Rao, a leading urologist having overall 19 years of expertise in treating urological disorders efficiently and effectively. To learn more, the doctor can be consulted at Delhi Urology Hospital.
