Life After Prostate Cancer
What is 'recurrence' of prostate cancer?
Recurrence is the reappearance of prostate cancer, either clinically or by a biochemical means. This is quite common actually, depending on how early the cancer was detected to start with, and what the affects were of the initial treatment.
How often will I need follow-up tests after my prostate cancer treatment?
Generally after the initial follow up after treatment, we'd like to see men on a regular basis. Over time we'd certainly spread those visits out, but we certainly would look to continue on an annual basis at least, for the rest of their life.
What are the different types of prostate cancer recurrence?
One type of recurrence that is common is what we call bio-chemical recurrence. That is that there's no clinically apparent cancer, but the blood test or PSA begins to rise indicating that there are in fact some prostate cancer cells that have recurred. More advanced recurrence would include things that show up on a x-ray or a CT Scan.
What are the most common treatments for recurrent prostate cancer?
If prostate cancer reoccurs, the treatment at that point depends on what the initial treatment was. For example, a man that's had a radical prostate may be able to have some local radiation to control the recurrence. If the man has been treated primarily with radiation to start with, generally we would not use additional radiation. In some cases, we would also use hormones or other medications such as chemotherapy.
What treatments are available for incontinence caused by prostate cancer?
When incontinence occurs after prostate cancer treatment, a number of things may be helpful to minimize its effects. This can include exercise, sometimes medications and occasionally surgical procedures are done to improve that problem.
What is 'erectile dysfunction' and how can I treat it after prostate cancer?
Erectile dysfunction is the loss of normal erectile capacity. This sometimes occurs after prostate cancer treatment in which the nerves surrounding the prostate have been injured by the treatment. Erectile dysfunction after treatment may, actually, improve with time. However, when it does not, measures such as medications and surgical procedures may be necessary to help that.
How can I cope with the loss of sexual function after prostate cancer?
Loss of sexual function after prostate cancer is something that is very important and on the minds of most men contemplating treatment for prostate cancer. However, we try to encourage them that there are medications and treatments that may help that condition.
