Northwest Oncology & Hematology

Rolling Meadows Office: 847.870.4100
Elk Grove Village Office: 847.437.3312
Hoffman Estates Office: 847.885.4100
Barrington Office: 847.842.0180
Elgin Office: 847.577.1023

Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.

Prostate Cancer: Controlling Cancer Symptoms and SpreadC¡ncer de pr³stata: control de los s­ntomas y de la expansi³n del c¡ncer

Prostate Cancer: Controlling Cancer Symptoms and Spread

Cancer that has spread beyond the prostate can often be treated. Hormone therapy can slow the growth and spread of the cancer. Chemotherapy may help relieve symptoms and control the cancer. Cancer pain can be managed with medications.

Always take medications as directed.

Hormone Therapy

Testosterone can cause the cancer to grow. Treatments can include:

  • Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists. These medications reduce the amount of testosterone made by the testicles. LHRH agonists are injected monthly or every 3 to 4 months.

  • Antiandrogens. These medications block the body's ability to use testosterone. They are given by pill.

  • Orchiectomy. This surgery removes the testicles, the main source of testosterone.

Risks and Complications of Hormone Therapy

  • Hot flashes

  • Breast enlargement or tenderness

  • Sexual dysfunction

  • Osteoporosis (bone loss)

  • Diarrhea

  • Loss of energy

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy (chemo) uses medications to destroy cancer cells anywhere in the body. Chemo may be given by pill or injection. It may be used with or instead of other treatments. It may slow the growth of cancer, and may relieve pain and other symptoms. A medical oncologist manages chemo treatments.

Pain Control

Prostate cancer that has spread may cause pain. This pain can be treated. Pain medications can improve your quality of life. Using them can relieve stress, helping you to better withstand the cancer. Discuss the side effects of these medications, and any other concerns you have, with your doctor.

Publication Source: American Cancer Society

Online Source: American Cancer Society

Date Last Reviewed: 2005-12-28T00:00:00-07:00

Date Last Modified: 2004-11-10T00:00:00-07:00

Contact us at Northwest Oncology & Hematology. You can reach us at 847.870.4100 (Rolling Meadows office), 847.437.3312 (Elk Grove Village office), 847.885.4100 (Hoffman Estates office), 847.842.0180 (Barrington office) and 847.577.1023 (Elgin office)For your convenience, you can also use our New Patient Appointment online form to schedule your consultation with us.

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