Prostate cancer occurs when a tumor grows within the prostate gland, a tiny walnut-shaped gland that makes seminal fluid (responsible for nourishing and transporting sperm in men). Doctors don’t know the exact cause of prostate cancer, but they know it occurs when the abnormal cells in the prostate divide and multiply, which eventually form a tumor and can spread to other parts of the body.

Risk factors for prostate cancer include advanced age, race, obesity, and a family history of the disease. Common visual symptoms of prostate cancer are as follows:

1. Difficulty urinating
Many patients suffering from prostate cancer may experience difficulty in urinating due to treatment or the condition itself. Someone may have to go to the restroom more often than normal or may even lose complete control of their bladder. A few men who have prostate cancer reported that urinating can also be painful due to the enlarged prostate putting pressure on the urethra.

2. Pelvic pain
Pelvic pain can be linked to the prostate cancer spreading into the bones. The tumor can also put pressure into nearby organs and tissues which contributes to back and pelvic pain. The pain can range from mild to extremely severe and might require pain management intervention. This affects the patient by limiting their strength and mobility.

3. Blood present In urine
When the cells in the prostate grow out of control, blood may be present in the urine. Blood can be in both urine and semen which is known as hematuria. This occurs when the cancer is in the advanced stages and should not be ignored. The color of blood in urine can either be red, pink, brownish-red, or tea-colored. Sometimes the patient may not even be able to see the blood, but small red blood cells could be detected if the urine is taken to a lab. The reason there is blood present is because the kidney has been damaged by the expanding tumor. Patients should also keep in mind that blood in urine is also a result of radiation therapy.

4. Chronic fatigue
Fatigue is when someone is feeling extremely tired even after they are done resting. Chronic fatigue makes it harder for men to enjoy their daily activities because it can interfere with concentrating, sleeping, learning new ideas, getting dressed, and even participating in social activities. The fatigue can be caused by having a low blood cell count caused by an issue related to the autonomic nervous system. This system controls the heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and vital functions of the patient.

5. Losing bowel control
It is possible for prostate cancer to reach the rectum although not as common. A few symptoms of cancer spreading to one’s bowels include blood in the stool, constipation, and stomach pain It is recommended for patients to go see their doctor if the problem persists or becomes worse.