Prostate cancer symptoms usually develop slowly over time but there are early signs that the size of your prostate is increasing and putting pressure on the bladder and urethra and affecting how you urinate.
The three symptoms you may notice:
1. increased frequency to urinate,
2. difficulty or straining to urinate and
3. incomplete bladder emptying or a feeling after urinating that your bladder is not empty.
Another common symptom is increased nocturia, the need to get up during the night to urinate and a weak flow. An enlarged prostate can be an entirely benign condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and does not increase your risk of getting prostate cancer but if you are suddenly presenting these symptoms it is worth a visit to your urologist for a prostate examination.
Simple lifestyle changes can help with BPH such as reducing your alcohol intake, limiting intake of artificial sweeteners, exercising regularly and drinking less in the evening. For severe symptoms a urologist can prescribe you medication that will reduce the size of your prostate gland and help relax the bladder. Surgery is only recommended for those that fail to respond to medication.
It is important not to delay getting checked out - it may be nothing to worry about at all and seeking early reassurance will reduce your stress levels. And if there is something that requires further investigation the sooner you talk to a specialist who will provide an expert opinion, the higher the chances of successful treatment. In many instances, surgery is not appropriate but delays in diagnosis could potentially reduce the option of alternative treatment.
Book an appointment today to see one of our London Urologists and see NHS prostate cancer webpage for more information.