Treating Prostate Cancer

Treating Prostate Cancer

According to the National Cancer Institute, there have been about 165,000 new cases of prostate cancer so far in 2018 alone. Though it isprostate cancer one of the most common cancers, it is not something to be taken lightly. Luckily, prostate cancer is treatable with help from your urologist. Find out more about the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer with Dr. Lucas Jacomides at Greater Austin Urology in Austin, TX.

What is prostate cancer? 
The prostate is a gland found in a male’s reproductive system. The prostate, located underneath the bladder, makes much of the semen which transports the sperm. Though prostate cancer is not as common in men under 50, it is a serious health risk to men of all ages, making preventative care and early detection crucial.

Do I have prostate cancer? 
Prostate cancer grows very slowly over time and often begins with no outward symptoms. However, as the cancer progresses, symptoms like urinary issues, frequent urination, pain while urinating, pain during ejaculation, or blood in the semen may occur. If any of these symptoms occur, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible. If you experience burning pain while urinating, do not urinate at all after consuming fluids, or have deep pains in the areas surrounding the prostate like the lower back, hips, and thighs, you should seek immediate emergency medical attention. Additionally, spinal compression, which causes symptoms like weakness in the legs, increased difficulty urinating, passing a bowel movement or controlling your bladder, or decreased sensation in the legs or groin areas can be the first sign of cancer.

Diagnosing Prostate Cancer
Men over 50 or those who are at higher risk for prostate cancer (i.e., family history and/or African-Americans) should strongly consider screening for prostate cancer. These screenings, which may be a digital rectal examination or blood test, are crucial for early detection and treatment of prostate cancer. Your doctor may use an in-office ultrasound or an MRI-targeted biopsy of the prostate to diagnose prostate cancer.

Prostate Cancer Treatments in Austin, TX, and Lakeway, TX 
Treating prostate cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s personal situation. It will also depend on if cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Thanks to its slow-growing nature, doctors sometimes recommend holding off on treatment for individuals with low-risk prostate cancer. New lesser-invasive options, such as high-intensity focused ultrasound (or HIFU) and Cyberknife, are now also available. More aggressive forms of the disease may require surgery, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, or chemotherapy.

For more information on prostate cancer or its treatments, please contact Dr. Lucas Jacomides at Greater Austin Urology in Austin, TX. Call (512) 540-3937 to schedule your appointment.


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