What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?

Other symptoms of prostate cancer include blood in the urine and/or a painful or burning sensation when urinating. It is important to remember that prostate cancer, especially in its early stages, may not produce any symptoms at all. That is why regular examinations are recommended. If left untreated, prostate cancer can spread from the prostate to nearby lymph nodes, bones, or other organs. This spread is called metastasis. As a result of metastases, many men experience aches and pains in the bones, pelvis, hips, ribs, and their back.

Why does prostate cancer spread?

The male hormone testosterone produced almost entirely by the testicles, stimulates prostate cancer much in the same way as kerosene fuels a fire. As long as the body produces testosterone, prostate cancer will probably continue to grow and spread. In fact, the American Cancer Society considers high levels of testosterone to be one of the principal risk factors for prostate cancer.

What is hydronephrosis?

It is a enlarged kidney with water in it. Causes of this condition can be obstruction or reflux.

Can it be corrected successfully?

Yes, it can be corrected successfully. In most cases of hydronephrosis, it can go down on it’s own. On moderate to severe cases, it will be monitored. If surgery is necessary, it can be quite successful even in the most severe cases. In severe cases, surgery may be done one or more times to correct the kidney.

What should I monitor if my child has hydronephrosis?

Fevers are important to monitor. If your child has a fever over 100 degrees Fareinheit for a 24 hour period, take him or her to your doctor right away. Even if it is a virus, you can never be too careful. UTI (urinary tract infection) is alone not serious, but if goes to the renal area, scar tissue is one of the concerns. If your child has a sore tummy or back without any symptom of flu, it is good to take the child to your doctor. Hydronephrosis can cause flank pain. It should never be ignored.

How is this condition caused?

No one knows how this condition is caused. Some speculate environmental pollution has been causing more and more birth defects in children.

My son was diagnosed in utero. How should I find a good doctor?

It is important to find a good urologist, you and your child are comfortable with. You should get referrals from friends, or do your best to find one who makes you feel confident. Remember there is no such thing as a stupid question!