Prostate cancer is a kind of cancer that originates in the prostate gland. The prostate gland is a small-sized gland that has a walnut-like shape and is found in males. It is responsible for producing the seminal fluid that facilitates the transportation and nourishment of the sperm. Here, we will cover the risk factors and the early warning signs and symptoms of prostate cancer.

Who is at risk of suffering from prostate cancer?

• People who belong to an older age group
• An individual whose family has had a long-standing history of suffering from prostate cancer
• People who do not keep their weight in check and suffer from obesity
• Genetic changes in the body

Early warning signs of prostate cancer

• Feeling a burning sensation or a sharp pain while urinating
• Facing difficulty in passing urine
• Feeling the urge to urinate multiple times in the night
• Losing control over the bladder function
• Decrease in the rate at which urine flows
• Presence of blood in the urine and semen
• Symptoms of erectile dysfunction

Key symptoms of prostate cancer

Urinary problems

One of the most common symptoms of prostate cancer is urinary problems. The reason behind this is that the prostate gland is found below the bladder and it is closer to the urethra. Because of this, if a tumor develops around the prostate, it could come in contact with the urethra or the bladder and create further problems. Some of the urinary problems are feeling a sudden urge to urinate several times in a day and the presence of blood in the urine.

Sexual problems
Erectile dysfunction could be one of the symptoms of prostate cancer. When you suffer from this condition, you find it difficult to keep a firm erection for a long time during sexual intercourse. The presence of blood in the semen post-ejaculation could also indicate the possibility of a person suffering from prostate cancer.

Feeling numb or suffering from pain
As prostate cancer develops over a period, it spreads to different areas of the body, including bones. When this happens, you feel a sharp pain in areas like the pelvic, chest, and back. If cancer finds its way through the spinal cord, your legs and bladder might lose their sense of feeling and go numb.

You must note that non-aggressive prostate cancer may not exhibit any symptoms, but if a person is at an advanced stage, the symptoms will be prominently visible. Some signs and symptoms of prostate cancer indicate that the person is suffering from the condition. However, these symptoms are also found when a person is suffering from other kinds of diseases. So, it is advisable to consult a doctor and thoroughly examine yourself when you see any such symptoms.