A prostate cancer diagnosis marks a significant moment in any man's life. While the primary objective during treatment remains focused on defeating the disease, the journey does not end when treatment concludes. Instead, a new chapter begins-one that includes understanding physical, emotional, and psychological changes brought about by treatment side effects. Recovery requires more than just time; it demands informed, supportive, and ongoing care from a specialised team. Understanding this phase and finding the right prostate cancer treatment doctor becomes essential for ensuring long-term well-being.
What to expect immediately after prostate cancer treatment?
The post-treatment period varies depending on the treatment type-be it surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or a combination of approaches.
After surgery, such as a radical prostatectomy, patients typically remain in hospital for a few days. During this time, it is common to experience drowsiness due to anaesthesia and some degree of post-operative discomfort. Pain management is provided with appropriate medication. A urinary catheter is usually in place for several days following the procedure to allow proper bladder drainage. Doctors often encourage early ambulation, as walking supports circulation and accelerates healing. However, strenuous physical activity, including heavy lifting, is discouraged for several weeks.
Following radiation therapy, side effects may appear more gradually. Patients often experience fatigue, which can persist for some time. Localised discomfort, bowel irregularities, and urinary symptoms may also occur. Hormone therapy can bring additional challenges, including mood changes and altered libido.
Regardless of the treatment method, medical teams remain vigilant during this phase to monitor recovery and manage any early side effects.
Common Challenges for Prostate Cancer Survivors
Every survivor's experience is unique, but many face similar challenges during recovery. These issues may be temporary or require long-term management. Physical side effects, changes in sexual health, and emotional strain are all common concerns.
Urinary Issues
- Urinary incontinence is one of the most common complications following prostate surgery. It often involves leakage during physical activities such as coughing, laughing, or exercise. Urgency incontinence, where there is a sudden need to urinate, can also occur. Most men regain control within a few months. Pelvic floor exercises (Kegel exercises) offer significant improvement.
- Urinary retention, or difficulty fully emptying the bladder, may also arise but is typically short-lived.
- Bowel changes can accompany certain treatments, particularly radiation therapy. Symptoms may include diarrhoea, urgency, or rectal discomfort. It is important to consult a prostate cancer treatment doctor if such issues persist.
Sexual Dysfunction
- Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects many men after prostate cancer treatment due to nerve damage during surgery or radiation. Recovery may take time, and in some cases, the dysfunction proves long-lasting.
- Reduced libido is another common effect, particularly for those undergoing hormone therapy.
- Painful ejaculation and noticeable changes in semen, including reduced volume, may also be observed.
Other Physical Effects
- Fatigue remains one of the most persistent side effects. It may result from anaemia, nutritional deficiencies, depression, or the cumulative impact of treatment.
- Body changes include weight loss, loss of muscle mass, breast tenderness or growth (gynecomastia), hot flushes, and bone thinning.
- Emotional impact cannot be overlooked. Depression, anxiety, and fear of cancer recurrence affect many men. Seeking timely mental health support or guidance from a uro-oncologist is important.
Rehabilitation and Quality of Life
Rehabilitation plays a key role in helping men transition from treatment to recovery. Its aim is not just to restore physical function but also to address emotional and psychological needs, improving overall quality of life. A multidisciplinary rehabilitation plan often includes:
- Physical Therapy: Pelvic floor physiotherapy, especially Kegel exercises, helps reduce urinary incontinence. Therapists also address muscle weakness, posture, balance issues, and treatment-related fatigue. Gentle exercises and gradual activity resumption form part of this approach.
- Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapists assist patients in regaining independence in daily activities, such as dressing, bathing, and returning to work. They may recommend adaptations to home or work environments to facilitate recovery.
- Sexual Health Counselling: Sexual rehabilitation often requires expert guidance. Counsellors explore treatment options for ED, such as medications, vacuum devices, injections, or implants. They also support couples in adjusting to changes in intimacy.
- Nutritional Support: A dietitian helps men adopt a balanced, nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Proper nutrition supports healing, manages treatment side effects, and may reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Lifestyle Changes: Regular physical activity, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and maintaining a healthy weight all contribute to overall health and improved prognosis. These lifestyle changes may also help reduce the likelihood of cancer returning.
Long-term Follow-up and Survivorship Care
Ongoing medical supervision remains essential after completing prostate cancer treatment. Regular follow-ups ensure that any signs of recurrence are caught early and allow healthcare providers to manage persistent side effects.
Routine Monitoring
- PSA Testing: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests are usually recommended every six months for the first five years, followed by annual testing. Rising PSA levels may indicate a recurrence.
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): If the prostate has not been removed, DREs may continue as part of routine monitoring.
- Imaging: Scans such as MRI, bone scans, or CT may be required if PSA levels rise or new symptoms emerge.
Monitoring for Other Cancers
Prostate cancer survivors carry a slightly elevated risk of developing secondary cancers. Regular screenings, awareness of changes in the body, and prompt reporting of new symptoms are essential for early detection.
At Peerless Hospital, we offer comprehensive cancer care delivered by a team of experienced specialists, including expert prostate cancer treatment doctors, a team of Uro-Oncologist, medical & Radiation Oncologist. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures every patient receives personalised attention at every stage of their journey-from diagnosis to survivorship.
Our services include:
- Medical Oncology
- Surgical Oncology
- Uro-Oncologist
- Head & Neck, Breast, GI, Colorectal, and Gynaecological Onco-Surgery
- Chemotherapy in a comfortable, dedicated day care facility
- Interventional Radiology, including radiofrequency ablation and TACE
- Multidisciplinary Tumour Board Reviews
