The prostate, a gland located below the bladder in men, produces fluid that assists supporting sperm cells. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identifies prostate cancer as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, killing about 28,905 men in 2005. This form of cancer generally occurs in men older than 40, according to MedlinePlus. By the time progression reaches stage 4, prostate cancer symptoms may or may not be evident.
Considerations
Symptoms of prostate cancer will generally not emerge until the later stages of prostate cancer, the American Cancer Society warns. The National Cancer Institute indicates that many men do not develop symptoms at all. Additionally, symptoms associated with later stage prostate cancer are also found in other, unrelated conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, infection or other health problems. Testing conducted by a doctor will determine the cause of symptoms.
Staging
Stage 4 prostate cancer is the final stage. Due to the extent the cancer has spread in the body, symptoms likely will emerge at this point. The National Cancer Institute indicates that the cancer may have spread to the nearby organs such as the bladder, rectum and many other parts of the body parts, resulting in a potentially diverse array of symptoms.
Sexual Dysfunction
Advanced stage prostate cancer symptoms include sexual dysfunction. The National Cancer Institute indicates that men with cancer may experience difficulties maintaining an erection. If the individual is able to maintain an erection, the CDC says that ejaculation may feel painful and semen may contain blood.
Urination
Various problems regarding urination may emerge in advance stage prostate cancer. Overall, the individual, according to MayoClinic.com, may experience trouble during urination and the force of the stream may be decreased. The CDC specifies that the individual may have problems beginning urination, interrupted flow, frequent need to urinate, particularly during nighttime and inability to empty the bladder completely. Additionally, pain or discomfort may arise during urination, with blood evident in urine.
Pain and Discomfort
In stage 4 cancer, tumors may have spread to bones, the American Cancer Society indicates. Pain may be experienced in affected areas. Additionally, spread of cancer to the spine can cause pressure on nerves, resulting in the loss of bladder and bowel control. Weakness and numbness may emerge as well in the feet and legs. Other pain and discomfort symptoms, as indicated by MayoClinic.com, include swelling in legs, pelvic discomfort and pain in bones. The National Cancer Institute states that pain in these various body parts may occur frequently.
