Prostate Cancer: Symptoms
As prostate cancer progresses, some people have symptoms. But others don’t. Here's a look at 13 signs to watch for.
In its early stages, prostate cancer doesn’t usually cause any symptoms. The only way to know you have it is through a screening test. This is one of the advantages to following screening guidelines. As with any cancer, the earlier it’s found the sooner you can discuss treatment options with your healthcare provider.
13 warning signs to watch for
As prostate cancer progresses, some people have symptoms. But others don’t. Some symptoms may be a sign that the cancer is growing larger or has spread outside the prostate. If that happens, you may need more extensive treatment.
Possible symptoms include:
A frequent need to pee, especially at night
Trouble starting to pee
Weak or interrupted pee flow
Trouble fully emptying the bladder
Not being able to pee at all
Accidental peeing
Unable to control bowels
Painful or burning feeling when you pee
Blood in your pee or semen
Pain or stiffness in your low back, hips, ribs, upper thighs, or other bones that doesn't go away
Trouble getting or keeping an erection
Weakness or numbness in legs or feet
Unexplained weight loss
When to see your healthcare provider
Having 1 or more of these symptoms doesn’t automatically mean you have prostate cancer, or that existing prostate cancer is getting worse. Other health conditions may cause the same symptoms and may not be related to cancer.
But you should not ignore any of these symptoms. So if you do notice 1 or more, contact your healthcare provider as soon as you can. Only a healthcare provider can tell if you have cancer.