Irving, TX – There are different kinds of prostate cancer treatment available in cancer centers everywhere. The good thing about it is that the chances of curing the disease are very high and that one actually has some kind of room to choose. The flipside is that it can easily leave one wondering where to begin. Patients should consider and be able to discuss which approach to take with their doctors because every treatment method has its own set of side effects.

“Every treatment method has side effects,” the oncologists point out. “It is important for patients to know what they are walking into before they start treatment.”

The most common treatment methods and their side effects include:

• Radical Prostatectomy – This is a procedure where the affected prostate is completely removed surgically. Short-term side effects include urinary leakage, with fair bladder control resuming after about 12 weeks. Long-term side effects may include mild incontinence in about 5% of patients and a little less than 5% experience severe incontinence. Erections should be adequate for sexual activity.

• Radiation Therapy –This treatment works by killing off cancer cells using radiation. It is very effective but may affect healthy cells that are close by as well. Short-term side effects include irritation around the rectum and bladder, looser and irregular bowel movements, weaker urinary streams and urgency and frequency with urination. These clear up a few weeks after the treatments are over. Long-term effects are very rare and may include rectal inflammation and incontinence.

• Prostate Seed Implants – Small pellets that release radiation over time are implanted into the prostate. The short-term side effects for this procedure include perineal bruising and discomfort, increased urinary urgency and frequency as well as weak urine streams. These may present four to six weeks after the procedure but will subside after about three to six months. Long-term side effects are very rare and will more likely occur if they were present before treatment.

“Patients should not be afraid to ask their doctor the possible side effects of their recommended treatment,” add the oncologists. “It is useful information to help you prepare for treatment.”

About The Prostate Seed Institute

The Prostate Seed Institute is one of the country’s leading pioneers in prostate cancer treatment including prostate seed implementation, a fast and painless procedure that effectively treats prostate cancer in its earliest stages. With a team of oncology experts and a state-of-the-art facility, the Prostate Seed Institute provides prostate cancer patients with the most comprehensive treatment available.