Early symptoms of prostate cancer

The early symptoms of prostate cancer mainly include changes in urination, pelvic discomfort, abnormal semen, erectile dysfunction, bone pain, etc. Prostate cancer is a common malignant tumor in the male reproductive system. In the early stages, there may be no obvious symptoms or the symptoms may be mild and easily ignored.

1. Changes in urination

In the early stage, prostate cancer may compress the urethra and cause difficulty in urination, which may manifest as frequent urination, especially increased nocturia, thinning or interruption of urine flow, and difficulty in urinating. Some patients will experience urinary urgency or a feeling of incomplete urination. Changes in urination may be related to tumor compression of the urethra or invasion of the bladder neck.

2. Pelvic discomfort

There may be dull pain or pressure in the pelvic area, and the pain may radiate to the lower back. Discomfort may worsen when you sit for long periods of time or while riding a bicycle. Pelvic discomfort may be related to local tumor infiltration or nerve compression.

3. Abnormal semen

The semen may be bloody or rust-colored, and ejaculation may be painful. Abnormal semen may be related to tumor invasion of seminal vesicles or prostate tissue bleeding.

4. Erectile dysfunction

You may have difficulty or weak erections, and your sexual desire may be reduced. Erectile dysfunction may be related to tumor invasion of neurovascular bundles or psychological factors.

5. Bone pain

Some early-stage patients may experience persistent pain in the lower back, pelvis, or thighs that does not relieve and gradually worsens after rest. Bone pain may be related to early bone metastasis of tumors.

The early symptoms of prostate cancer lack specificity and are easily confused with prostatic hyperplasia. It is recommended that men over the age of 45 undergo regular prostate-specific antigen screening and digital rectal examination. You should maintain a regular schedule in your daily life, avoid sitting for long periods of time, and perform appropriate Kegel exercises to exercise your pelvic floor muscles. In your diet, you can increase foods rich in antioxidants such as tomatoes and broccoli, and reduce high-fat diet. If the above symptoms occur, you should promptly seek medical advice from a urology department and obtain a clear diagnosis through prostate biopsy.