Side effects experienced for the treatment of Prostate Cancer vary. Following are the most common symptoms:
Surgery - After surgery, some men lose control of the flow of urine, but most regain bladder control after a few weeks. Surgery can also damage the nerves around the prostate, causing impotence, which can be permanent.
If the prostate is removed, men will no longer be able to produce semen and may want to consider sperm banking or retrieval before surgery.
Radiation Therapy - Side effects depend on dose and type of radiation therapy. Fatigue is common, but doctors usually tell patients to remain active. Those receiving external radiation may experience diarrhea and uncomfortable urination and hair loss in the area of the radiation. Internal radiation can cause temporary incontinence. Both forms of radiation can cause impotence.
Hormone Therapy - Hormone therapy can cause impotence, hot flashes and loss of sexual desire. Any treatment that lowers hormone levels can also weaken the bones.
Chemotherapy - Side effects can include fatigue, hair loss, nausea and vomiting, and diarrhea.
The Cancer Support Community and our partners provide this information as a service. It is not intended to take the place of medical care or the advice of your doctor. We strongly suggest consulting your doctor or other health care professionals to answer questions and learn more about various treatments.
Resources
Learn more about possible mouth and throat changes as a result of cancer treatment and how to manage these side effects.
Certain cancer treatments including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can damage your nervous system. Learn more about peripheral neuropathy and and other potential nervous system changes here.
Learn more about managing constipation as a side effect of cancer treatment.
Learn about managing diarrhea as a side effect of cancer treatment.
Nausea and vomiting be side effects of cancer treatment. Learn more about neausea and vomiting and how to mange them.
Dealing with infection as a side effect of cancer treatment
Learn more about pain as a side effect of cancer treatment and how to manage pain.