Prostate cancer is a term which might bring with it a lot of confusion, fear, and thousands of questions, especially in the minds of patients diagnosed with it and their loved ones. One of the most common questions that patients generally have is whether prostate cancer treatment is painful. It is a fair question to ask, especially when a term like cancer is involved. It is quite natural for the patients to get intimidated by the term, and the organ in general, which is one of the least talked about organs of a man’s body. However, the good news is that prostate cancer is highly treatable, especially when it is caught in the early stages. The advancements in the field of modern medicine and technology have paved the way for the emergence of a lot of techniques that not only treat prostate cancer effectively, but also help to manage and ease the discomfort caused by the treatment. Patients might be relieved to know that not all prostate cancer treatments are painful, and when they are, the pain is highly manageable. From radiation therapy and hormone therapy to surgery, each treatment option has its own set of advantages, which can be used in different patients based on the particular case. Sometimes, in low-risk cases, the treatment is even delayed or not given at all. In this article, we will discuss in detail prostate cancer, its treatment options, and whether they are painful or not.
What is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer is a cancer that develops in the prostate, which is a small, walnut-shaped organ present below the bladder in males. The prostate is an important organ as it releases a fluid that gets mixed with the semen, and is responsible for keeping the sperm healthy in order to facilitate conception and pregnancy. Prostate cancer is a serious condition, but patients suffering from it are generally diagnosed early. Hence, early intervention and prostate cancer treatment not only eliminate the cancer but also improve the quality of life of the patient. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers that affects males all across the world.
What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?
prostate cancer does not cause any visible symptoms in its early stages. However, its symptoms can get severe as the disease progresses. Some of these symptoms include:
- Frequent urination, especially during the night
- Weak or interrupted flow of urine
- Pain or burning sensation while urinating
- Loss of control over the bladder and the bowel
- Painful ejaculation or erectile dysfunction
- Blood in semen or urine
- Pain in the lower back, hip, or chest
Are prostate problems always a sign of prostate cancer?
Not all the problems related to the prostate gland are prostate cancer. These problems might include:
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): With age, almost all men are at risk of facing this problem, which involves the enlargement of the prostate gland and urinary problems. However, this does not increase a person’s risk of developing prostate cancer.
- Prostatitis: In people younger than 50 years of age, prostatitis, a form of bacterial infection, can cause swelling and inflammation of the prostate gland.
Do prostate cancer treatments cause pain?
The amount of pain and discomfort caused by the treatment of prostate cancer highly varies from person to person and the treatment option that is being used.
- prostate cancer surgery: It can cause post-operative pain and discomfort, which can be managed through certain medications. A urinary catheter can also cause some pain after the surgery, however, the pain is often temporary.
- radiation treatment for prostate cancer: External beam radiation might cause temporary pain, burning, or discomfort during urination. Issues like diarrhea and bowel issues might also be seen temporarily.
- Chemotherapy and Hormone Therapy, while targeting the cancer, can also help in reducing the pain associated with prostate cancer and its treatment.
In case a person is experiencing the symptoms of prostate cancer, it is important for them to consult an expert prostate specialist, who can guide them better and diagnose the real cause behind their symptoms. Patients who are diagnosed with prostate cancer should understand that it is a common and highly treatable form of cancer. With the advancements in modern medicine and technology, it is now possible to eliminate cancer completely and lead a healthy, normal life. The expertise of a prostate cancer specialist and the patient’s determination are the keys to winning against cancer.
If you are looking for the best doctor for prostate cancer or the best hospital for prostate cancer in Mohali, Sohana Hospital Mohali might be the best option for you. Sohana Hospital is home to the World’s Most Advanced Cancer Treatment Technology and North India’s Most Trusted and Renowned Cancer Specialists who provide the most comprehensive and holistic treatment for all kinds of cancer with the most compassionate and patient-centric approach. Book your appointment today!