However, sometimes advanced stages of the disease must be treated. In this case, a medical oncologist will need to use hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and other treatments to treat the condition. If the symptoms are not severe, however, a medical oncologist may recommend active surveillance, which means repeated PSA tests and DREs.
There are three main stages of prostate cancer: early, intermediate, and advanced. These are determined through imaging studies and DRE. Prostate cancer stage is determined using the TNM system (tumor, nodes, metastasis). The lower the stage number, the lower the risk of the cancer spreading. In addition, the earlier the letter in the stage, the lower the risk. Generally, cancers of similar stages have the same outlook and treatment.
The treatment for prostate cancer can cause serious side effects. Although some men find it hard to undergo this form of treatment, it is recommended that men discuss side effects with their doctors before undergoing it. Prostate cancer patients should also seek second opinions from different healthcare professionals, including oncologists and radiation oncologists. Doctors should be well trained in managing side effects and ensuring that their patients get the best care possible. The more skilled and experienced they are, the lower the risk of permanent side effects. Survivors of prostate cancer should share their stories and advice on how to manage side effects.
Another treatment option is brachytherapy, or implant therapy. In this procedure, tiny radioactive pellets are implanted into the prostate. The seeds release high doses of radiation in a very small area of the prostate. These seeds will stop emitting radiation after one or two weeks. The cancer cells will die as a result. The patient may undergo imaging procedures following the procedure. The recovery time after brachytherapy varies.
Although symptoms of prostate cancer may not be visible in the early stage, men should see a doctor if they experience painful urination. This discomfort can also be caused by other problems. In addition to prostate infections, men with a high PSA level can have an infection of the urinary tract or even a sexually transmitted disease. The treatment for nocturia will depend on the cause of the problem. The symptoms of prostate cancer will be different for different men.
Early detection is crucial to ensure the best outcome. A digital rectal examination will reveal whether you have prostate cancer. A doctor will examine you using a digital rectal examination. Depending on the stage of the disease, a doctor will prescribe the appropriate treatment and determine whether or not you should see a doctor. If you suspect that you have prostate cancer, see a doctor right away. It’s important to know the symptoms of prostate cancer, since if detected early, treatment may be successful in halting the growth of the disease.
Although the cause of prostate cancer is still unknown, researchers agree that certain factors increase the risk of the disease. Some factors are inherited, while others are acquired over time. Studies also show that diet and lifestyle may increase the risk of prostate cancer. Men who eat large amounts of red meat are at the highest risk of developing the disease. Furthermore, meat consumption is associated with higher prostate cancer rates in countries where people consume more meat. So, it is crucial to change your diet and lifestyle to reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer.
