Non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC) – Signs and treatments
Castrate-resistant prostate cancer, or CRPC, is a type of cancer that continues to grow even after one’s testosterone levels have fallen considerably. This is in contrast to initial-stage prostate cancer, which needs normal testosterone levels for the cancer cells to multiply. This type of cancer may be metastatic or non-metastatic. Metastatic CRPC is when the cancer has spread to other body organs, while non-metastatic CRPC or nmCRPC is still restricted to the prostate.
Signs and symptoms
Problems with urination
Many patients with nmCRPC may experience abrupt pain in the prostate region while urinating, blood in their urine, or extremely weak urine flow.
Swelling of the lower body
When prostate cancer spreads to other body parts, it often reflects in the form of swelling of these parts, including the hips, lower back, and pelvis.
Fatigue
One of the most common symptoms of nmCRPC is fatigue or tiredness, which worsens with cancer interventions. Staying hydrated and having healthy fluids like soups and fresh fruit juices can help manage this symptom.
Treatment options
NUBEQA®
This is an oral intervention oncologists often prescribe for those with nmCRPC. This type of treatment is effective only when cancer hasn’t begun spreading to other organs but no longer responds to other interventions.
Androgen deprivation therapy
Since prostate cancer requires testosterone to spread, oncologists may recommend androgen deprivation therapy, a type of hormone remedy that aims to stop the production of this hormone secreted by the testicles. But it may not always work for those with this condition, as the cancer usually continues growing regardless of hormone levels by this stage.
In general, prostate cancer has several causes and risk factors, such as a person’s age, family history, genetic mutations, etc. Besides following a systematic treatment course, those healing from CRPC should stay active, eat low-fat and lean-protein foods, and avoid processed and deep-fried foods for better symptom management and recovery.