Hormone Treatment For Prostate Cancer Side Effects

Chemically or surgically hormone treatment can be use to remove the supply or block the action of testosterone because prostate cancer cells depend on the male hormone testosterone for growth. It works by starving the prostate cancer of its fuel supply but leads to other side effects relating to testosterone deficiency.

The most common hormone treatment for prostate cancer side effects include:

1. Impotence or erection problems and lack of sexual desire
2. Mild weight gain around the abdomen
3. Hot flushes
4. Mood swings
5. Lethargy, lack of energy and reduced sex drive
6. Weight loss on the arms and legs
7. Swelling and discomfort around the breast area or breast tenderness
8. Changes in appetite
9. Depression and loss of bone strength (osteoporosis)
        
These side effects of hormone treatment for prostate cancer can vary in their intensity from mild to more significant. It is important to talk with your doctor for ways to minimise their impact on your day-to-day life.

Nevertheless, there are several reasons to use hormone treatment for prostate cancer. These include;
1. Men not suitable for, or would not benefit from radical treatment
2. When the prostate cancer has returned after radical treatment
3. Before treatment with radiotherapy

Hormone treatment can be used in men with various degrees of prostate cancer. Normally, it is primarily used if prostate cancer has overspread outside the prostate. It doesn't cure the cancer. The intent of hormone therapy is first to delay the advancement of the cancer and second to increase survival rates while maximizing quality of life. Factors to consider when deciding whether to go for hormone treatment for prostate cancer are quality of life, cost of the treatment, and how effective and safe hormone treatment may be in a particular case.

If a patient doesn't react to initial hormone treatment, a doctor may try other hormonal therapy prior to recommending chemotherapy.

Read about Proton Beam Therapy Prostate Cancer