In this article, we’ll discuss some symptoms of prostate cancer and a few medications to combat it effectively.
Prostate cancer is the formation of cancer cells in the prostate gland. It may or may not be spreading fast to the lymph nodes or bones. This type of cancer is mainly seen in males over 50 years of age due to their race (African American), family history, or old age. In fact, this disease has a high mortality rate amongst males over the age of 55 to 60.
The cancer is detected through a biopsy. Further, medical screening is done to check if this cancer has spread to other major regions. This helps the doctor figure out its spreading pattern, if at all. If already grown vigorously, this cancer might be detected through a CT scan.
Although a major concern about prostate cancer screening is that it might aid the cancer spread. A thorough decision-making process with multiple opinions must be performed before going ahead with the screening process.
Like many other types of cancer, the patient is dealt with patience and active medical attention. Treatments for this type of cancer mainly include surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation exposure, and hormonal therapies. Though the outcome of all such treatments is never certain and the results can vary from person to person.
The prostate gland surrounds the urethra, the tube that has the task of carrying the seminal fluid and urine when needed. This gland plays a major role in seminal fluid development and is made up of many smaller glands. All these produce about 20% of the male seminal fluid.
The cancer formation begins when the normally functioning prostate gland cells mutate into cancer cells. Most prostate cancers are hence classified as ‘glandular cancers‘.
Over time, these cells begin to multiply and then form a tissue around the glands which gradually develops into a tumor. These tumors have the capability to infiltrate nearby glands and organs. Even worse, they could mix with the bloodstream or lymph nodes.
On a higher scale, ultrasound treatment and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) are used to detect abnormalities in the urethra or prostate glands. The digital rectal examination allows a medical practitioner to identify any kind of abnormal functioning. Whereas cystoscopy shows the urinary tract from the inside using a small digital camera pushed inside the urethra.
In most cases, the symptoms are not really evident and visible in the early stages. The symptoms of prostate cancer are moreover different for different people. Many symptoms of prostate cancer are generally associated with a range of issues with the urinary tract.
Suppose this cancer has spread outside the prostate gland. In such a case, the patient might experience:
These medicines can help reduce the intensity of prostate cancer symptoms. Keep in mind, they will not help cure or kill cancer completely, but they do help limit the spread to some extent. Of course, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy are options, but they come at a later stage.
Consider using these medicines if the symptoms are too painful and obstructing your day-to-day life.
With treatment, 98% percent of those affected will survive and live longer than they would otherwise. Although keep in mind, prostate cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer and is the sixth cancer type with the most male deaths under its name.
People need to be aware of such symptoms and contact a medical practitioner immediately if and when they arise.