These are the 10 most important symptoms for prostate cancer

How men can recognize prostate cancer themselves

Prostate cancer is a dangerous disease that is by far the most prevalent among all cancers in men in Germany. If this form of cancer is detected early, there is a good chance of recovery. That is why it is particularly important to recognize early warning signs for prostate cancer. Here is a summary of the ten most common indications of early stage prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer continues to increase

Prostate cancer accounts for around a quarter of all new cancers in men every year in Germany. The rate of the disease continues to increase in recent years. At the onset of the disease, this form of cancer usually causes very little symptoms, which are often not recognized by sufferers. The question naturally arises: what symptoms should men pay attention to to detect prostate cancer at an early stage? Although the thought of cancer diagnosis is frightening, it is important, according to the English-language journal INSIDER, to pay attention to certain signs in order to quickly recognize and then treat prostate cancer. Here are a few signs of prostate cancer that are easily overlooked.

Prostate cancer is a disease that costs many men worldwide their lives. Various signs should be known to detect prostate cancer at an early stage. (Image: Henrie / fotolia.com)

1. Your urine flow may not be as strong as before

A decreased urine flow or velocity is a common symptom of prostate cancer, which men can detect well themselves. The reduced rate of urine urination can be caused by a tumor that presses on the urethra, say experts at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America.

2. You need to use the bathroom more often at night than you used to

Frequent urination, especially at night, can be a sign of a problem with the prostate, according to the Prostate Cancer Foundation. Prostatitis or an enlarged prostate can cause urinary tract symptoms such as increased urination. Be sure to see a doctor if you notice that you often get up in the evenings to go to the bathroom.

3. Your feet or legs are swollen

Being on the move all day can obviously put a strain on your feet, but chronically swollen legs could also be a sign of something more serious. Oncologists report that swelling or pooling of fluid in the legs or feet may be a sign that prostate cancer has already spread outside the prostate. In such a case, it is especially important to talk to a specialist if you notice this symptom, especially if you are sure that you have not gained weight elsewhere or similar swellings elsewhere.

4. They suffer from constipation without any obvious explanation

Most people may be aware of when they have taken certain foods that lead to a disruption of the digestive system. However, if you suffer from constipation for no apparent reason, you should consult your doctor. In addition, constipation related to prostate cancer may also be accompanied by pressure or pain in the rectum. Be sure to contact your doctor if you have repeated blockages without a clear cause.

5. They do not spend as much sperm as usual

According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, a decrease in the amount of ejaculated fluid can be a symptom of prostate cancer. Of course, low semen volume is not always a sign of cancer. The experts point out that a decreased amount of semen can also be associated with low hormone levels, weakened pelvic muscles or retrograde ejaculation when the semen flows back into the bladder rather than from the penis.

6. They often suffer from pain in the back

Concerned individuals may assume that their back pain means they overdo it in the gym or simply slept poorly. The Prostate Cancer Foundation points out, however, that back pain or stiffness may actually be a symptom of prostate cancer. Pain associated with prostate cancer are usually long term and deep in the back. This information could help distinguish prostate cancer from a muscle injury or a workout injury.

7. Pain in thighs or hips

Doctors warn that even pain in the pelvic bones or the surrounding area could mean that you have prostate cancer. Visit your doctor to determine joint problems or muscle injuries and to rule out prostate cancer.

8. They lose weight without intending to do so

Unexplained weight loss is another potential sign of prostate cancer. This symptom usually occurs when the cancer has spread outside the prostate.

9. You often lose the feeling in your legs or feet

Of course, the legs can fall asleep when sitting in a car or airplane for a long time. However, if you often suffer from numbness or sensory pains in your legs, it may indicate prostate cancer. The Cancer Treatment Centers of America explain that this type of lower limb numbness may be a symptom of prostate cancer spread and its pressure on the so-called spinal nerves.

10. Sitting is painful and uncomfortable

Discomfort or pain while sitting can also signal a problem with your prostate gland. This type of pain can be caused by the prostate, which presses on other areas of your pelvis. If you notice that you feel pain or pressure while sitting, but feel better when you get up, it may be an indication of prostate cancer. (As)