Cancer and Healthy

Although research has resulted in better and more treatment options with regards to prostate cancer, there are still side effects that you will experience after treatment has concluded. There are several categories of side effects that are common with prostate cancer treatment. Some are:

* Urinary dysfunction.
* Erectile dysfunction.
* Side effects of chemotherapy.

The side effects of chemotherapy depend on the type of drugs, the amount taken, and the length of treatment. Temporary side effects might include nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, hair loss, and mouth sores.

Urinary dysfunction refers to the inability to control the urine stream, resulting in leakage or dribbling of urine. It can affect you not only physically, but emotionally and socially, too.

Treating incontinence depends on its type, cause, and severity. Some men feel embarrassed about discussing this issue, but it is important to remember that this is a common medical problem. Depending on your situation, there are several ways to improve this condition, including surgery, medicine, and Kegel exercises which strengthen the muscles of the pelvis.

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to get an erection of the penis sufficient for sexual intercourse. The nerves that allow men to get erections are often damaged by radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy.

Depending on the treatment strategy used, some or all of these effects might be present. It's also important to realize that not all symptoms are normal, and that some require immediate care. The best advice I can give is if you see that you are developing one or more of these symptoms, get to your doctor right away.