Prostate cancer
Discussion
BBC was focusing on prostate cancer this morning and getting checks.
I recently had some health checks for various reasons which included blood tests which I didn’t know was a way of checking or prostate cancer .
When my father passed away 23 years ago they discovered he had an enlarged prostate so I’ll be getting regular checks.
All the best for all on here going through this
I recently had some health checks for various reasons which included blood tests which I didn’t know was a way of checking or prostate cancer .
When my father passed away 23 years ago they discovered he had an enlarged prostate so I’ll be getting regular checks.
All the best for all on here going through this
I never fail to be amazed at the scope of threads and subjects here on PH! I'm not normally the sort of bloke to click on a subject called 'Health Matters' so it is no surprise that it took me so long to find this one.
Just arrived home after my second 'sitting' of radiotherapy at the Velindre Cancer centre, Cardiff. My story is so similar to most of you that I won't tell you all the ins and outs but it began with an incident of total urinary retention which happened last September and resulted in a few days in our Heath hospital.
Diagnosis was enlarged prostate and since that moment it seems like everything we do or say at home is defined by it. I can identify with so many of the events you have been through including the loss of 'drive' to do anything much - but fast forward to today and I can say that I've got my act together in most respects. The team in both hospitals just cannot be faulted in any way at all. I have had marvelous treatment. Best of all, my assessments point increasingly point towards the prospect of the condition being controllable more or less indefinately. Starting with a PSA frighteningly over 80, it is now down to .5.
The company of you guys is very reassuring. I am sure I will have lots more to say, learn and share with you.
Just arrived home after my second 'sitting' of radiotherapy at the Velindre Cancer centre, Cardiff. My story is so similar to most of you that I won't tell you all the ins and outs but it began with an incident of total urinary retention which happened last September and resulted in a few days in our Heath hospital.
Diagnosis was enlarged prostate and since that moment it seems like everything we do or say at home is defined by it. I can identify with so many of the events you have been through including the loss of 'drive' to do anything much - but fast forward to today and I can say that I've got my act together in most respects. The team in both hospitals just cannot be faulted in any way at all. I have had marvelous treatment. Best of all, my assessments point increasingly point towards the prospect of the condition being controllable more or less indefinately. Starting with a PSA frighteningly over 80, it is now down to .5.
The company of you guys is very reassuring. I am sure I will have lots more to say, learn and share with you.
^^^^^^^
Yes very good news from 52classic, keep us updated if you so choose.
Meanwhile I am well into my third week of four weeks radiotherapy treatment. Bowling along nicely
with no unexpected events, feeling good and positive although last week I had little energy. This week I feel good. Addenbrookes delivering first class treatment and care throughout, my highest praise for all who provide these and other services in the hospital.
For those who may suspect they could have prostate cancer I can assure you, from my own experiences, you have little to fear and much to gain by getting yourselves checked over ASAP.
Yes very good news from 52classic, keep us updated if you so choose.
Meanwhile I am well into my third week of four weeks radiotherapy treatment. Bowling along nicely
with no unexpected events, feeling good and positive although last week I had little energy. This week I feel good. Addenbrookes delivering first class treatment and care throughout, my highest praise for all who provide these and other services in the hospital.
For those who may suspect they could have prostate cancer I can assure you, from my own experiences, you have little to fear and much to gain by getting yourselves checked over ASAP.
Seems as good a thread as any.
Couple of UTIs, one episode of blood un urine, 2 episodes of blood in semen, bar one UTI these were all last year - Sept to November.
Ultrasound, flexible cystosopy, cat scan and then week before last a prostate MRI have all followed.
All fine bar the MRI which has showed some shadowing/areas of concern in one section of it.
Hence in for a prostate biopsy next week, think this is a legs wide open in stirups job - not that I'm bothered about my dignity! Hoping its just signs of an infection. Will have to see.
Oh and having another PSA done next week too at the same time. Last one from Oct/Nov was fine.
Couple of UTIs, one episode of blood un urine, 2 episodes of blood in semen, bar one UTI these were all last year - Sept to November.
Ultrasound, flexible cystosopy, cat scan and then week before last a prostate MRI have all followed.
All fine bar the MRI which has showed some shadowing/areas of concern in one section of it.
Hence in for a prostate biopsy next week, think this is a legs wide open in stirups job - not that I'm bothered about my dignity! Hoping its just signs of an infection. Will have to see.
Oh and having another PSA done next week too at the same time. Last one from Oct/Nov was fine.
Regarding the Biopsy, when I had mine it was in the fetal position on my side, nothing untoward really 3 samples from each side.
Some say each sample taken feels like a small bee sting, can't remember really TBH, but it's not a procedure to get stressed about.
HTH.
ETA
Just a heads up regarding PSA (blood tests) don't just rush into the surgery and go straight in, take a 10 min rest and relax. Elevated blood pressure I was told could skew the PSA results.
Some say each sample taken feels like a small bee sting, can't remember really TBH, but it's not a procedure to get stressed about.
HTH.
ETA
Just a heads up regarding PSA (blood tests) don't just rush into the surgery and go straight in, take a 10 min rest and relax. Elevated blood pressure I was told could skew the PSA results.
Edited by Big Al. on Friday 18th March 12:05
Like Big Al I had the lying-on-my side version. A local anaesthetic then I had 12 samples - 6 each side - taken using an ultrasound scanner so the doc can see where he is. No big deal except when he went outside the area of the anaesthetic with one attempt. 
And don't ride a bike before the blood test as that too can alter the PSA readings (apparently).
And don't ride a bike before the blood test as that too can alter the PSA readings (apparently).
As others have mentioned the biopsy is nothing to get stressed about, it is like a bee sting, a rather good description of the discomfort involved. My Doctor was constantly asking me if I was OK with the procedure as we progressed along and offered more anesthetic if I wanted it.
Have you had the delight of the rear passage finger probe?
Wish you well with your diagnosis, if you do need to undergo treatment I can advise you that the NHS provide a superb service.
Have you had the delight of the rear passage finger probe?
Wish you well with your diagnosis, if you do need to undergo treatment I can advise you that the NHS provide a superb service.
Time for an update Gentlemen...... Just back home after the 6th and last weekly Radiotherapy 'sitting.'
No problems at all save for increasing tiredness and increasing joint and muscle stiffness (could also be attributable to my impending 70th Birthday mind!)
They tell me to expect 3 weeks of erratic but manageable side effects then a further couple of months of what they call a 'regenerative period' which was simple explained as the collateral damage in healthy tissue being in recovery whilst the tumour tissue is suppressed by the drugs.
So, for the foreseeable future its Enzalutamide and Tamsilosin on a daily basis with quarterly jabs of Prostap. Next big review mid June.
As ever, I can't speak highly enough of the Velindre teams and the way the place is organised - How about a dedicated parking space to come in for your Radiotherapy booking!?
Interesting comments about the Biopsies. TBH I was s
t scared of the idea and was described in my intro notes as having a very bad case of 'white coat syndrome.' But I need not have worried, strange experience though. Sounded and felt vaguely like having a staple tacker fired up one's bum!
Off for a nap now, in preparation for a couple of family pints in the local tonight. Good to hear that even the new recruits on her are fairing well.
No problems at all save for increasing tiredness and increasing joint and muscle stiffness (could also be attributable to my impending 70th Birthday mind!)
They tell me to expect 3 weeks of erratic but manageable side effects then a further couple of months of what they call a 'regenerative period' which was simple explained as the collateral damage in healthy tissue being in recovery whilst the tumour tissue is suppressed by the drugs.
So, for the foreseeable future its Enzalutamide and Tamsilosin on a daily basis with quarterly jabs of Prostap. Next big review mid June.
As ever, I can't speak highly enough of the Velindre teams and the way the place is organised - How about a dedicated parking space to come in for your Radiotherapy booking!?
Interesting comments about the Biopsies. TBH I was s
t scared of the idea and was described in my intro notes as having a very bad case of 'white coat syndrome.' But I need not have worried, strange experience though. Sounded and felt vaguely like having a staple tacker fired up one's bum!Off for a nap now, in preparation for a couple of family pints in the local tonight. Good to hear that even the new recruits on her are fairing well.
Hi Guys,
I said earlier that I was feeling a bit down 'cause nothing was moving. It seems I was wrong.
I've just had a chat with my oncologist. He normally sounds bright, happy and positive, which can be really irritating. He went through the normal questions, then said that I was responding well to the hormone treatment. He asked about my breast size (this prostate cancer treatment is often surreal) and then said that my PSA had dropped to 0.49. This is a massive reduction. I was surprised at just how relieved I felt. After all, it's just a number.
I am now on the waiting list for a CT scan, 4-6 weeks, although I'll allow 2 months, and then a shorter delay for radio therapy. That's 4-6 weeks I'm not particularly looking forward to as they suggest it is very tiring for someone of my age.
I feel really good. In fact, I feel like buying something.
Pleased with the PSA. Pleased that everything is moving. The only downside is that my right breast is still growing, albeit more slowly than it was. At least it's something where my wife can appreciate how I feel.
I said earlier that I was feeling a bit down 'cause nothing was moving. It seems I was wrong.
I've just had a chat with my oncologist. He normally sounds bright, happy and positive, which can be really irritating. He went through the normal questions, then said that I was responding well to the hormone treatment. He asked about my breast size (this prostate cancer treatment is often surreal) and then said that my PSA had dropped to 0.49. This is a massive reduction. I was surprised at just how relieved I felt. After all, it's just a number.
I am now on the waiting list for a CT scan, 4-6 weeks, although I'll allow 2 months, and then a shorter delay for radio therapy. That's 4-6 weeks I'm not particularly looking forward to as they suggest it is very tiring for someone of my age.
I feel really good. In fact, I feel like buying something.
Pleased with the PSA. Pleased that everything is moving. The only downside is that my right breast is still growing, albeit more slowly than it was. At least it's something where my wife can appreciate how I feel.
Good news about your PSA Derek, Less so the wait for a scan. Down here, the longest I've waited at any stage has been 2 weeks.
As for the tiredness associated with Radio-Therapy, it does seem to affect everyone differently. I asked what causes it and was told that the body uses energy to 'fight' the effects of the radiation. That seems plausible enough to me. In week 1&2 I barely noticed being tired at all. In week 3, as well as the RT and the meds, I had a Prostap injection. The combined effect of these meant I could barely function for a couple of days! The general advice is not to fight it. Bed rest and watch 'Homes Under The Hammer.' Indeed, the procedure itself is a piece of cake. The machine doesn't even touch you, Totally painless too. Your dignity is the only looser! I found I could recite 'Albert and the Lion' in the time it took start to finish.
As for the tiredness associated with Radio-Therapy, it does seem to affect everyone differently. I asked what causes it and was told that the body uses energy to 'fight' the effects of the radiation. That seems plausible enough to me. In week 1&2 I barely noticed being tired at all. In week 3, as well as the RT and the meds, I had a Prostap injection. The combined effect of these meant I could barely function for a couple of days! The general advice is not to fight it. Bed rest and watch 'Homes Under The Hammer.' Indeed, the procedure itself is a piece of cake. The machine doesn't even touch you, Totally painless too. Your dignity is the only looser! I found I could recite 'Albert and the Lion' in the time it took start to finish.
Edited by 52classic on Tuesday 22 March 16:04
52classic said:
Good news about your PSA Derek, Less so the wait for a scan. Down here, the longest I've waited at any stage has been 2 weeks.
As for the tiredness associated with Radio-Therapy, it does seem to affect everyone differently. I asked what causes it and was told that the body uses energy to 'fight' the effects of the radiation. That seems plausible enough to me. In week 1&2 I barely noticed being tired at all. In week 3, as well as the RT and the meds, I had a Prostap injection. The combined effect of these meant I could barely function for a couple of days! The general advice is not to fight it. Bed rest and watch 'Homes Under The Hammer.' Indeed, the procedure itself is a piece of cake. The machine doesn't even touch you, Totally painless too. Your dignity is the only looser! I found I could recite 'Albert and the Lion' in the time it took start to finish.
Thanks for the reply.As for the tiredness associated with Radio-Therapy, it does seem to affect everyone differently. I asked what causes it and was told that the body uses energy to 'fight' the effects of the radiation. That seems plausible enough to me. In week 1&2 I barely noticed being tired at all. In week 3, as well as the RT and the meds, I had a Prostap injection. The combined effect of these meant I could barely function for a couple of days! The general advice is not to fight it. Bed rest and watch 'Homes Under The Hammer.' Indeed, the procedure itself is a piece of cake. The machine doesn't even touch you, Totally painless too. Your dignity is the only looser! I found I could recite 'Albert and the Lion' in the time it took start to finish.
Edited by 52classic on Tuesday 22 March 16:04
I had a phone call this afternoon. An appointments person said she would book me in. I was asked my preferences for hospital, and picked a local one. 'Oh, in that case, I can offer you a cancellation next Wednesday.' Jumped at it, and so everything will be quicker. Well chuffed.
It's come at a good time as my youngest grandchild, born at 28 weeks, now 6 months, has gone into hospital yet again and will be kept in for three nights. So I was feeling down. My news obviously doesn't negate that, but at least it was positive.
Baby is being looked after by a very good team at the maternity hospital. Nothing but praise for them.
Last Visit said:
Hence in for a prostate biopsy next week, think this is a legs wide open in stirups job - not that I'm bothered about my dignity! Hoping its just signs of an infection. Will have to see.
Picked up a cancellation slot so had the biopsy done this morning. Obviously not enjoyable but not too bad, thanks to the posters above who shared their experiences. Legs in supports, birthing position. Didnt realise they take so many samples, 24 in total. Now got a 2 week wait or so to see if im in the club or not!
Last Visit said:
Last Visit said:
Hence in for a prostate biopsy next week, think this is a legs wide open in stirups job - not that I'm bothered about my dignity! Hoping its just signs of an infection. Will have to see.
Picked up a cancellation slot so had the biopsy done this morning. Obviously not enjoyable but not too bad, thanks to the posters above who shared their experiences. Legs in supports, birthing position. Didnt realise they take so many samples, 24 in total. Now got a 2 week wait or so to see if im in the club or not!
I also was fortunate to be offered a couple of cancellation slots which helped speed my treatment plan.
Keep us advised should you wish and good luck.
Had my CT scan today. It went without problems. I had to empty my bladder (have a pee) just before the process started, and as it was only 40 mins, there was no 'difficulties'.
The type I had required being injected with a radioactive fluid. The scanner does throw radio waves at me, and instead I throw them at it. I suppose it cuts down on electricity.
The one problem was that I was told I should not be near children 5 and under. Touching distance was mentioned. This is not something any man of my age wants to be threatened with, at least, not without a court order. My youngest boy is coming round tonight, and so will leave his two, both under 5, at home.
I hope my kids believe me as to reason.
Full details on my writewheel site, under Blugger and the big C.
Edited to add: Well worth avoiding if you're about to see a proctologist. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1enmyAmpik
The type I had required being injected with a radioactive fluid. The scanner does throw radio waves at me, and instead I throw them at it. I suppose it cuts down on electricity.
The one problem was that I was told I should not be near children 5 and under. Touching distance was mentioned. This is not something any man of my age wants to be threatened with, at least, not without a court order. My youngest boy is coming round tonight, and so will leave his two, both under 5, at home.
I hope my kids believe me as to reason.
Full details on my writewheel site, under Blugger and the big C.
Edited to add: Well worth avoiding if you're about to see a proctologist. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1enmyAmpik
Edited by Derek Smith on Wednesday 30th March 20:04
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