Warning Signs A Man's Erectile Dysfunction Is Actually Prostate Cancer

As the second most common cancer among men and the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men, prostate cancer is definitely something that everyone with a prostate over the age of 65 should be discussing with their doctor. Although prostate cancer is a relatively slow-growing cancer and one that some people can actually live with and not require treatment, prostate cancer signs can be sneaky. In fact, in some cases there are no symptoms at all, hence the reason why prostate cancer can be so deadly.

Having blood in the urine or struggling to urinate are often associated with early prostate cancer, according to the American Cancer Society; as the cancer progresses other more noticeable issues can arise. One of those is erectile dysfunction (ED). "Erectile dysfunction (ED) can sometimes be associated with prostate cancer, but it's not usually the first symptom," Dr. Justin Houman, a Board-Certified Urologist and Fellowship-Trained Men's Sexual and Reproductive Health Specialist, exclusively told Health Digest. As Dr. Houman explained, ED is often the result of prostate cancer treatment options. However, it can also be a warning sign of the disease itself. "In some cases, if prostate cancer grows large enough, it can indirectly impact erectile function by interfering with local structures or causing overall fatigue and weakness," he said.

Because erectile dysfunction isn't usually one of the initial signs of prostate cancer, then there's a very good chance that the ED you're experiencing isn't the only physical issue you have on your plate. "If prostate cancer were the cause of ED, you'd typically see other warning signs, such as difficulty urinating, blood in the urine or semen, pain in the lower back or pelvis, or a change in the frequency or strength of your urinary stream," Dr. Justin Houman told Health Digest.

But before you assume the worst, it's important to stress that these symptoms only suggest that there may be an issue with the prostate or urinary system, and don't guarantee that it's definitely, without a doubt, prostate cancer. So, take a deep breath. According to Dr. Houman, these symptoms simply warrant further investigation so as to get to the bottom of things.

Even if your erectile dysfunction doesn't accompany any other symptoms and appears to be a stand-alone problem, it's still not something you should ignore. According to the Mayo Clinic, more than 50% of men from 40 to 70 years of age have had a run-in with ED, meaning it's quite common and there's absolutely no shame in it.

"You should see a doctor for erectile dysfunction if it's persistent or affecting your quality of life," said Dr. Justin Houman. "If it lasts longer than a few months, or if it's associated with other symptoms like fatigue, reduced libido, or any of the warning signs mentioned earlier, it's a good idea to get evaluated." 

It's also important to know that while there are many reasons for ED, from physical to psychological, it can also be a sign that something else, besides prostate cancer, could be going on. As Dr. Houman explained, those possible health conditions could be cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or hormonal imbalances, which will require treatment. If it's just your regular ol', run-of-the-mill ED, then your doctor can prescribe erectile dysfunction medication to help get you back up and running.