Prostate Cancer Symptoms in New York, NY
Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate begin to grow in an uncontrolled way. In most men it grows slowly and quietly, which is why it is often called a silent disease. Early prostate cancer usually causes no symptoms at all, and by the time warning signs appear the cancer may already be advanced. At Prostate Cancer 911, Dr. David Samadi helps men understand which symptoms deserve attention and why screening, not symptom-watching, is the best way to catch prostate cancer early.
Early Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
When a tumor grows large enough to press on the urethra or bladder, men may notice changes in urination or sexual function. Possible early signs include:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Difficulty starting or stopping the urine stream
- A weak, slow, or interrupted stream
- A feeling that the bladder has not fully emptied
- Pain or burning during urination
- Blood in the urine (hematuria) or blood in the semen
- Painful ejaculation or new erectile dysfunction
Many of these symptoms are far more often caused by non-cancerous conditions such as enlarged prostate (BPH), prostatitis, or a urinary tract infection. Only a medical evaluation can determine the true cause, so any persistent change should be checked by a urologist.
Advanced Prostate Cancer Symptoms
If prostate cancer spreads beyond the prostate, it most commonly travels to the bones and lymph nodes. Symptoms of advanced disease may include:
- Pain in the hips, back, pelvis, ribs, or thighs
- Bone fractures with little or no injury
- Swelling in the legs or feet from blocked lymph drainage
- Weakness or numbness in the legs, or loss of bladder or bowel control, which can signal pressure on the spinal cord and requires emergency care
- Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
Why Symptoms Are Not a Reliable Warning System
Because most early prostate cancers grow in the outer part of the gland, away from the urethra, they rarely interfere with urination. A man can feel perfectly healthy while cancer is developing. Waiting for symptoms means risking a later diagnosis, when treatment is more complex and the chance of a cure is lower.
Regular screening with a PSA blood test and a digital rectal exam is the most effective way to find prostate cancer while it is still confined to the gland and highly curable. If your PSA is abnormal, Dr. Samadi may recommend an MRI or MRI fusion biopsy to look more closely. Learn more on our prostate cancer diagnosis page.
When to See a Urologist
Schedule an evaluation if you notice any urinary changes that last more than a few weeks, see blood in your urine or semen, or have new bone pain that does not go away. You should also see a urologist for routine screening if you are 50 or older, or 45 and older with a family history or other risk factors.
Be Proactive About Your Prostate Health
Knowing the signs of prostate cancer is important, but acting early matters even more. Most cancers detected at an early stage can be treated successfully. Call Prostate Cancer 911 at (212) 365-5000 to schedule a screening or symptom evaluation with Dr. Samadi in Midtown Manhattan.
Related Care and Resources at Prostate Cancer 911
Prostate Cancer Symptom FAQs
What are the first signs of prostate cancer?
Early prostate cancer usually has no symptoms. When signs appear, they may include frequent urination, a weak stream, difficulty urinating, or blood in the urine or semen.
Can you have prostate cancer with no symptoms?
Yes. Most men with early prostate cancer have no symptoms at all, which is why routine PSA screening is so important.
Are urinary symptoms always a sign of prostate cancer?
No. Urinary symptoms are much more often caused by an enlarged prostate (BPH), prostatitis, or infection. A urologist can determine the cause.
What does blood in the urine mean?
Blood in the urine can result from infection, stones, an enlarged prostate, or cancers of the prostate, bladder, or kidney. It should always be evaluated. Learn about bladder cancer.
What are signs that prostate cancer has spread?
Bone pain in the back, hips, or pelvis, unexplained fractures, leg swelling, weight loss, and fatigue can indicate advanced prostate cancer.
Can prostate cancer cause erectile dysfunction?
It can, though erectile dysfunction is far more commonly caused by vascular, nerve, or hormonal issues. Any new change in sexual function is worth discussing with a urologist.
How do I get checked for prostate cancer?
Call (212) 365-5000 or request an appointment for a PSA test and prostate exam with Dr. Samadi.
Schedule Your Consultation With NYC’s Leading Urologist
Take control of your health today. Whether you are seeking a second opinion or experiencing symptoms like hematuria, Dr. David Samadi and the team at Prostate Cancer 911 are here to provide world-class care in Midtown Manhattan.
Request an AppointmentOffice Location: 485 Madison Ave, 21st Floor, New York, NY 10022
Phone: (212) 365-5000