9. Shortness of breath. If you find that you’re more easily winded when performing normal daily tasks that caused you no strain in the past, share this information with your healthcare provider. Again, there could be a more benign explanation for this symptom, but it’s best to know for sure.
10. Fatigue. Unexplainable fatigue is always a cause for concern. The possible reasons for fatigue comprise a lengthy list, with cancer being a prime concern in that lineup. Tell your doctor that you’ve been feeling run down and tired, and be sure to list any other symptoms to paint the full picture of your current state of health.

Early intervention promises the best outcome for prostate cancer patients. If the cancer is diagnosed while it is still contained at its point of origin, the chance for a complete recovery improves significantly. Once cancer begins to spread to other areas of the body such as the bones or organs, there is a chance that the disease can become terminal. Keeping open lines of communication open with your doctor and responding quickly to any symptoms may save your life.

In some cases, physicians may perform prostate cancer screening as part of a routine physical, although this practice is not universal. If you have a history of prostate cancer in your family, a scheduled, routine screening plan may be an appropriate addition to your regular exams. Talk to your doctor to see if this proactive option may be right for you.

In many cases, prostate cancer patients make a full recovery, but early detection is essential. Whenever you have any questions or concerns about your health, don’t hesitate to speak with your doctor. Even when it’s an uncomfortable conversation, it just may save your life!