Side effects of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer may cause difficulty passing urine, a weaker stream, needing to urinate often, blood in urine or semen, erectile changes, discomfort, tiredness or loss of appetite. Some people have no symptoms early on. If cancer affects bones, pain, weakness or reduced movement can occur. These symptoms can also come from benign prostate enlargement, infection or other conditions, so they do not identify the cause on their own. Prostate removal surgery, radiotherapy, brachytherapy and targeted radioisotope therapy can each have different effects on bladder control, bowel function, erections, energy or bone health.

Tell your care team exactly when a change began and how it affects sleep, work, exercise or intimacy. Mention difficulty passing urine, blood, new pain and any medicine or supplement you take. Your clinician may check urine flow, kidney function, blood tests or imaging and then discuss monitoring, medicines, catheter support, surgery or radiation. Bone-strengthening therapy may be considered when cancer or its treatment affects bone health. Pelvic-floor rehabilitation and practical support can help with recovery after prostate removal surgery. Ask for continence and sexual-health support early rather than waiting for embarrassment to ease.

Get urgent help if you cannot pass urine, have severe lower abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, new leg weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or sudden severe back pain. Contact your oncology team promptly for fever, burning urine, worsening urinary symptoms, new bone pain, or a sudden change in mobility. These signs can require quick assessment even when the underlying cancer is being monitored.

Could this symptom be caused by the cancer, treatment or another prostate condition? What is the plan for urinary and sexual side effects? How will bone health be checked? Which changes require an urgent call, and what support is available during recovery?