Prostate cancer is a condition in which the harmful cells in the prostate grow out of control. While some of these cancers are slow-growing, many are aggressive and can spread beyond the prostate gland. As per experts, early detection and personalized treatment increase the chances of recovery from the condition. Hence, make sure you watch out for these early warning signs of prostate cancer and consult a specialist without delay:

1. Urination problems
Urination problems are the most common early warning signs of prostate cancer. Signs to watch for include:

• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Urgency to urinate
• Decreased force of urine stream
• Slow and weak urine stream
• Dribbling and feelings of partial emptying
• Presence of blood or pus in urine or semen
• A sharp pain or burning sensation during urination
• Loss of bladder control
• Trouble starting or stopping while urinating

2. Erectile dysfunction
This is yet another warning sign of prostate cancer. Sudden erectile dysfunction or painful ejaculation can be because of the growth of malignant cells in the prostate gland.

3. Pain
Pain in the lower back, thighs, and hips may happen when cancer spreads to the lower body. There may also be a sudden pain around the prostate, especially while sitting. Many times, prostate cancer causes swelling in the lower body, i.e., the pelvic area and legs. Some may also experience pain and edema in the legs and feet.

4. Change in bowel habits
Loss of bowel control is also a warning sign of prostate cancer. This happens when cancer has spread to the bowels. Cancer spreads to the rectum first and then to the bowels. Stomach pain, constipation, and blood in the stool are some common symptoms.

5. Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss are early warning signs of prostate cancer. This usually happens when cancer spreads beyond the prostate gland.

6. Anemia
Anemia or lack of enough healthy red blood cells in the body can be a sign of prostate cancer. Anemia causes reduced oxygen flow to the organs of your body. This condition can result in fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, and light-headedness.

How can you know if you have prostate cancer?
Most men do not have any symptoms during early prostate cancer. Hence, you can know about the condition only when you visit a doctor. If there is a family history of prostate cancer, regular checkups after the age of 45 can help in early detection and timely treatment.

If you are noticing one or more early warning signs of prostate cancer, consult a physician promptly. Even benign or non-cancerous conditions related to the prostate require timely medical attention for easy treatment and quick recovery.