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    A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Back to Intro
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    Prostate Cancer: Symptoms

    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 choices with your doctor.

    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:

    1. A frequent need to urinate, especially at night
    2. Trouble starting to urinate
    3. Weak or interrupted urine flow
    4. Trouble fully emptying the bladder
    5. Not being able to urinate at all
    6. Accidental urinating
    7. Unable to control bowels
    8. Painful or burning feeling when you urinate
    9. Blood in your urine or semen
    10. Pain or stiffness in your low back, hips, ribs, upper thighs, or other bones that doesn't go away
    11. Trouble getting or keeping an erection
    12. Weakness or numbness in legs or feet
    13. Unexplained weight loss

    When to see your doctor

    Having one 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 one or more, contact your doctor as soon as you can. Only a doctor can tell if you have cancer.

    Online Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN
    Online Medical Reviewer: Susan K. Dempsey-Walls RN
    Date Last Reviewed: 12/1/2023
    © 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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    Southern New Mexico
    Surgery Center
    2301 Indian Wells Rd. Suite B
    Alamogordo, NM 88310
    www.snmsc.org

    Phone: 575.437.0890
    Fax: 575.437.0905
    Email: info@snmsc.org

    Copyright © The StayWell Company, LLC. except where otherwise noted.
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