While changes in urinary patterns could be indicative of a benign condition, known as an enlarged prostate, other times it could be a symptom of cancer.
Most specifically, prostate cancer can cause some unexpected dribbling after you urinate.
Leading charity Prostate Cancer UK notes “dribbling urine after you finish urinating” is one sign of prostate cancer.
Additional symptoms can include a weak flow, difficulty emptying your bladder, and a sudden urge to urinate that may result in leaking before you reach the loo.
If you find yourself waking up during the middle of the night to urinate, it could be prostate cancer or an enlarged prostate gland.
Whatever the underlying cause, “it’s still a good idea to get it checked out”, the charity insists.
Men with early prostate cancer will often have no symptoms because of the way the cancer grows, which is why many people dub it the ‘silent killer’.
Definitely seek medical advice if you experience unexplained back, hip, or pelvis pain.
And also book a doctor’s appointment if you experience issues with getting or keeping an erection.
Any blood in the urine or semen, or any unintended weight loss, are best brought to the attention of a medical professional.
“There’s no way of knowing if you have prostate cancer without visiting your doctor,” says Prostate Cancer UK. “And you can’t check for prostate cancer yourself.”
Tests can be done to deduce whether it could be an enlarged prostate or prostatitis that is causing your symptoms.
While there isn’t one single test for prostate cancer, when a few are combined, a diagnosis can be confirmed – or you could be given the all-clear.
Tests for prostate cancer include a urine sample, a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, and a digital rectal examination.
If these tests suggest you could have an issue, further investigation will be warranted by a specialist at the hospital.
Should it be needed, a referral should take place within two weeks from the moment you get your results from the doctor.
Anybody concerned they could have prostate cancer is strongly encouraged to take that first step to talk to their doctor about their concerns.