Prostate cancer often grows quietly in its early stages, causing little to no disruption in daily life. That’s why many men don’t realize something is wrong until the disease has advanced. But when prostate cancer spreads, the body usually starts sending clear warning signals. Recognizing the signs that prostate cancer has spread can make all the difference in getting prompt treatment.
8 Signs Prostate Cancer Has Spread
1. New or worsening bone pain
Bone pain is one of the most common signs of metastatic prostate cancer.
Men may feel aching or sharp pain in the hips, lower back, ribs, or other bones. This pain can worsen with activity or at night. Bone pain from cancer is usually persistent, rather than coming and going like a muscle ache or strain.
2. Swelling in the legs or feet
When cancer spreads to lymph nodes or compresses blood vessels, it can block the normal flow of fluid. This often leads to noticeable swelling, known as edema, in the ankles, legs, or feet. Some men also develop discomfort or heaviness in the lower body.
3. Trouble urinating
Prostate-related urinary changes can still be a clue that cancer has spread. Increased frequency and difficulty starting or stopping the stream can be signs of advanced prostate cancer.
4. Blood in urine or semen
Blood in the urine (hematuria) or semen (hematospermia) can be signs that prostate cancer has spread.
5. Unexplained weight loss
Sudden, unplanned weight loss is a red flag for advanced cancer in general, including prostate cancer. Men may lose weight unintentionally when the body uses extra energy to fight disease. Cancer can also affect appetite and metabolism, leading to weight loss.
6. Persistent fatigue
Fatigue is more than just feeling tired after a long day. In advanced prostate cancer, it can be profound and constant. Fatigue may result from cancer itself. But it can also be due to a low red blood cell count (anemia) or the body’s response to chronic illness.
7. Shortness of breath or cough
If prostate cancer spreads to the lungs, men may develop a new or worsening cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath. These symptoms are less common than bone pain but still need to be recognized.
8. Neurological symptoms
When prostate cancer reaches the spine, it may press on the spinal cord or nerves. This can cause numbness, weakness, or tingling in the legs, and in severe cases, difficulty controlling the bladder or bowels.
What Can You Do About It?
If you notice signs that prostate cancer has spread, it’s essential to talk with your doctor. Advanced prostate cancer often cannot be cured. Fortunately, several treatments can slow its growth, relieve symptoms, and help you stay active. Options may include:
- Hormone therapy: Reduces testosterone levels. Prostate cancer cells rely on testosterone to grow. By blocking it, hormone therapy can shrink tumors or slow progression.
- Radiation therapy: Often used to target bone pain or shrink tumors that press on nerves or other structures.
- Chemotherapy: Uses medication to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
- Targeted therapy and immunotherapy: These options attack specific cancer markers or boost the body’s own immune system to fight cancer cells.
- Bone-strengthening medications: Drugs such as bisphosphonates or denosumab help protect bones from fractures and reduce pain caused by metastatic prostate cancer.
- Pain management and supportive care: May include medications, nerve blocks, or physical therapy to keep you comfortable and preserve mobility.
Early evaluation can significantly improve the chances of treating advanced prostate cancer. Working closely with your doctor helps you take charge of your health and comfort.
If you are worried you have signs that prostate cancer has spread, take action immediately. Schedule an appointment with an experienced urologist today!