What Are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer in Young Men?
When symptoms of prostate cancer are present, they are similar to those of benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostatitis, and can vary greatly from patient to patient. Most young men have no symptoms at all, especially in the early stages of the disease, which is often detected by a doctor during a routine check-up.
When symptoms of prostate cancer are present, they are similar to those of benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostatitis, and can vary greatly from patient to patient. Most young men have no symptoms at all, especially in the early stages of the disease, which is often detected by a doctor during a routine check-up. A vague symptom or two may not seem alarming, yet it’s extremely important to seek medical advice since this cancer is usually asymptomatic.
Vague Symptoms
If a change in the size of the lymph nodes in the groin area is detected, it could be due to a local infection. However, it may also be an indication of cancer in the local region, including prostate cancer.
An unexplained fever may be a sign of pneumonia or other illness, but it may also indicate cancer, especially if accompanied by night sweats and/or a radical drop in weight.
Unexpected weight loss is a concern. Most people, regardless of age, have a hard time dropping weight. If a young man loses more than 10 percent of his body weight in a matter of weeks, it’s definitely cause for alarm.
Fatigue is another vague symptom. While it could be from the rigors of every day life, if the fatigue is not relieved with rest, it is a symptom that should not be overlooked or ignored.
Common Symptoms
The most common symptoms experienced with prostate cancer include difficulty in starting and stopping urination, increased frequency of urination, pain during urination, diminished urine stream, and the feeling of bladder fullness after urination. As a man ages, these symptoms develop without the presence of prostate cancer. However, in younger men, these symptoms should be cause for concern, especially if they progressively get worse. Some young men may also experience pain during or after ejaculation. If any of these symptoms are present, consult a physician immediately.
Advanced Symptoms
As prostate cancer advances, symptoms tend to become greater. Bladder function deteriorates even further, and some young men with advanced prostate cancer will sometimes experience recurring urinary tract infections, blood in the urine, and the inability to have an erection. Other symptoms that may seem unrelated such as cough, chest pain, and abdominal pain may also be observed in the advanced stages of prostate cancer.
Metastatic Disease
Young men with metastatic prostate cancer may experience fatigue, malaise, and weight loss. While these symptoms are vague, together they may indicate an extremely serious disease condition. If the cancer has spread to the bones, deep bone pain, especially of the low back or hips, may be experienced. Furthermore, these young men are at greater risk of experiencing bone fractures due to weakening of the bones from the cancer that has invaded the bone.