Prostate cancer is one of the most common mutations among men. While the prostate is the primary site of cancer growth, it may have far-reaching consequences, including damage to the neighboring bladder. Bladder damage caused by prostate cancer could lead to a range of symptoms, and understanding these signs is crucial for early detection and effective management. Here are the seven most common signs of bladder damage caused by prostate cancer.
Urinary changes
One of the earliest signs of bladder damage in prostate cancer patients is urinary changes. These changes may include increased frequency of urination, especially at night (nocturia), a weaker urine stream, difficulty initiating urination, or a sensation of incomplete emptying of the bladder. These symptoms occur because the cancerous prostate gland might obstruct the urethra, the tube through which urine flows from the bladder. As a result, the bladder has to work harder to expel urine, leading to these noticeable changes.
Blood in the urine
Hematuria, or blood in the urine, may be a concerning sign of bladder damage caused by prostate cancer. As the cancerous cells grow and invade surrounding tissues, they might irritate the lining of the bladder or even directly invade it, leading to bleeding. The urine’s blood may appear pink, red, or even brownish. While not all cases of hematuria are due to prostate cancer, it is essential to have this symptom evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Pelvic pain
Some men with prostate cancer may experience pelvic pain or discomfort, which could indicate bladder involvement. The prostate gland is situated close to the bladder, and as cancer progresses, it might spread to the bladder wall or nearby structures, leading to pain in the pelvic region.
Difficulty in emptying the bladder
In some cases, prostate cancer may trigger a significant blockage of the urethra, making it challenging to empty the bladder fully. This might lead to a constant feeling of needing to urinate and may result in recurrent urinary tract infections and bladder damage over time.
Bladder infections
Bladder damage may compromise the bladder’s ability to expel urine, leading to urinary retention. When urine is retained in the bladder, it causes an environment conducive to bacterial growth, increasing the risk of recurrent bladder infections. Symptoms of bladder infections include pain or burning during urination, increased urgency to urinate, and a frequent need to urinate, often in small amounts.
Urinary incontinence
In advanced cases of prostate cancer where the tumor significantly impairs bladder function, urinary incontinence may occur. Urinary incontinence is involuntary urine leakage, and it may manifest as stress incontinence (leakage with activities like coughing or sneezing) or urge incontinence (a sudden urge to urinate which is followed by leakage).
Changes in urine color and smell
As prostate cancer progresses and affects the bladder, urine’s color and smell changes could become noticeable. Cancer cells in the bladder may alter urine composition, resulting in unusual odors or discoloration. These changes may be subtle and often overlooked but are essential indicators of bladder involvement.
