Urethral cancer symptoms in male
Urethral cancer is a rare but serious condition that occurs in the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. Although it can affect both men and women, it is more likely common in men, especially in people over 75 years of age, this blog discusses urethral cancer symptoms in men, how it is diagnosed, and what treatment options are available. Familiarity with initial warning signals and timely medical intervention can lead to a significant treatment outcome.
What is the urethra?
Urethral cancer is when malignant (cancerous) cells develop tumors in your urethral tissues. Your urethra is a tube that allows urine (pee) to leave the bladder. In most men, the urethra is the passageway that is about eight inches long and runs through your prostate and penis to the outside of your body. It also carries semen and sperm (ejaculate) out of your body. The urethra is approximately two inches long for most females. It’s just above your vagina, inside your labia. So, this is what the urethra is in both men and women.
Understanding urethral cancer in men
The male urethra is longer (it runs through the prostate and penis) than the female one. This anatomical difference may influence the behavior of urethral cancer. It is a rare disease with non-specific symptoms, which means it often goes undetected in its early stages. However, early detection of signs of urethral cancer leads to quick treatment and better recovery.
Common Symptoms of Urethral Cancer in Men
Recognizing urethral cancer symptoms in men is important for early diagnosis. Symptoms depend on where the tumor is located and how far it has progressed. The most common symptoms include:
Blood in Urine (Hematuria): One of the first signs of urethral cancer is blood in the urine, which can be pink, red, or dark brown.
Problems with urination: A prevalent symptom among men with urethral cancer is difficulty initiating or keeping a consistent stream of urine.
Pain or burning sensation: A burning sensation while passing urine is also a warning symptom that must not be ignored.
Lumps or Swelling in the Perineal Area: Some patients find lumps, nodules, or swelling of the urethra or in the groin area.
Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): While a common cause, persistent UTIs may inadvertently point towards hidden urethral cancer.
Urethral Discharge: The presence of an unusual odor in the discharge from the urethra can be a sign of the disease.
Urinary incontinence: In some severe cases, you will lose bladder control or find it hard to empty the bladder.
Urethral Cancer Diagnosis and Symptoms
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms when you pee, then see a doctor. Your consultation starts with a few questions, i.e., about your medical history, and after the physical examination is conducted to check for lumps or any abnormalities with the help of a blood test or urine test. If they find anything, they might go for a Cystoscopy (it’s a tube with a camera that helps to examine the affected areas). Afterward, they may do a biopsy, which means taking the cells from the uterine or bladder and looking them under a microscope to see if they are cancerous or not. However, if your doctor finds out you have urethral cancer, then they go for more tests to see if the cancer has spread to other parts of your body with the help of MRI, CT scans, or ultrasound of the pelvis. After the whole procedure, the treatment plan is discussed according to the condition.
What are the options for urethral cancer treatment?
After making a diagnosis and confirming urethral cancer symptoms, one can then provide treatment based on the staging and location of the tumors as well as the general health of the individual. The following are some common treatments for urethral cancer:
Surgery
The main treatment for urethral cancer is the surgical removal of the affected part of the urethra. To treat more advanced cases, partial or complete removal of the urethra, bladder, or prostate may be needed.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy involves high-energy rays that kill cancer cells. It is generally suggested for individuals who are unable to have surgery or follow-up treatment to prevent recurrence.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy cancer cells or inhibit their growth. This is typically reserved for more advanced cases or where the cancer has spread from the urethra.
Immunotherapy
This new method aids the immune system in targeting cancer cells more efficiently. It is generally used when other therapies are not an option.
Urethral Cancer Treatment in Jaipur
If you are diagnosed with ureteral cancer and looking for treatment, especially urethral cancer treatment in Jaipur, then visit Dr. Sanjay K. Binwal at Urocare Health. He has extensive experience in treating urethral cancer with advanced technologies, state-of-the-art treatment methods, and personalized care plans to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.
Conclusion
Symptoms of urethral cancer in men might be rare, but early detection is important for successful treatment. If men experience any urinary discomfort, then immediately get medical advice. Diagnosis of urethral cancer requires prompt and appropriate treatment, which can drastically improve the likelihood of successful recovery. If you or a family member require it, then visit a specialist in Urethral Cancer Treatment in Jaipur for the best care possible.
