Urinary Symptoms: Concerns About Cancer and Treatment Options

Q: Urinary Symptoms: Concerns About Cancer and Treatment Options

Hello： 1. The causes of frequent urination, if symptoms have improved and tests are normal, may still be psychological factors. 2. For cancer screening, prostate cancer can be assessed with a PSA test. For bladder cancer, a cystoscopy or urine cytology is

excuse me?

Hello Dr.
Chen, I have a few questions I would like to ask.
I apologize for the lengthy message.

1: A few months ago, I started experiencing symptoms of frequent urination and incomplete voiding, but there is no hematuria.
Occasionally, I feel a slight pain in my lower body (I'm not sure if it's in my penis, testicles, or thigh, as they all feel very close together).
I went to National Taiwan University Hospital for a urine test, and the doctor said there was no inflammation, just an excess of impurities in my urine.
He advised me to drink more water and mentioned that it might be due to psychological factors.
However, after taking a break during the winter vacation, the issues seem to have improved only slightly, but they haven't worsened.
I'm wondering if there could be other factors causing these problems, or if it's just my anxiety (I tend to overthink things)?
2: I have done some research online because I'm very worried about cancer.
There are a few types of cancer that concern me, as I have some clinical symptoms.
I'm not sure if these cancers can be detected through urine tests or if other tests are needed.
Are these tests very expensive (I'm just a poor student...)? The cancers I'm most worried about are prostate cancer, bladder cancer, penile cancer, and testicular cancer.
Based on my symptoms, do you think it's possible? In addition to frequent urination, I also have many small white spots on my penis, which the doctor said are pearly penile papules.
I have not engaged in risky sexual behavior, but I do masturbate frequently.
In the past, I experienced unexplained ulcer symptoms on my penis, which left scars on the glans and shaft, but that was during my high school years, and I haven't had any issues in recent years.
This might have been caused by a medication allergy, as I used to frequently take cold medicine from a pharmacy, and I would develop ulcers a couple of days after taking it, but I had no issues when I didn't take it.
I would greatly appreciate it if you could take the time to answer these two main questions.
Thank you! Wishing you health, happiness, and all the best!

Youxinzhong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/16

Dr. Chen Xiuyi reply Urology

Hello:
1.
The causes of frequent urination, if symptoms have improved and tests are normal, may still be psychological factors.

2.
For cancer screening, prostate cancer can be assessed with a PSA test.
For bladder cancer, a cystoscopy or urine cytology is generally required.
Penile cancer and testicular cancer typically necessitate a physical examination, and ultrasound may be performed if necessary.
At the age of 21, the incidence of cancer is generally low, and the clinical symptoms are also not clear, making the likelihood of cancer lower.

3.
The cause of penile ulcers, based on your description, is most likely a drug allergy.
It is essential to identify which medication is responsible; otherwise, using the same medication could lead to skin ulcers in the same location each time.

Sincerely, Dr.
Chen Hsiu-Yi, Urologist

Reply Date: 2005/02/16

More Info

It's understandable to have concerns regarding urinary symptoms, especially when they persist or worsen over time. Let's address your questions and provide some insights based on medical knowledge.

1. Understanding Your Symptoms: The symptoms you describe, such as frequent urination and a feeling of incomplete emptying, can be caused by various factors. While your doctor has ruled out inflammation and suggested that it might be related to psychological factors, it's important to consider other potential causes. Conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), urinary tract infections (UTIs), or even anxiety can contribute to these symptoms. Since you mentioned some discomfort in the lower body, it could also be related to muscle tension or nerve irritation in that area. If your symptoms persist, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion or consult a urologist for a more thorough evaluation.

2. Concerns About Cancer: It's natural to worry about serious conditions like cancer, especially when experiencing unusual symptoms. However, the presence of frequent urination alone is not a definitive indicator of cancer. For prostate cancer, symptoms may include difficulty urinating, blood in urine, or pelvic discomfort, but these can also be associated with other non-cancerous conditions. Similarly, bladder cancer may present with blood in the urine or frequent urination, but again, these symptoms are not exclusive to cancer.
Urine tests can sometimes indicate abnormalities, but they are not conclusive for cancer diagnosis. More specific tests, such as imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scans) or cystoscopy (direct visualization of the bladder), may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis. The costs of these tests can vary widely depending on your location and healthcare provider, but many hospitals offer financial assistance or payment plans for students or those with limited income.

3. Pearl-like Bumps and Previous Ulcers: The "pearl-like" bumps you mentioned are likely pearly penile papules, which are benign and not associated with any health risks. As for the previous ulcers, if they were recurrent and resolved without treatment, they could have been related to a variety of factors, including irritation or allergic reactions to medications. If you suspect a drug allergy, it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider for appropriate management.

4. Psychological Factors: Anxiety and stress can significantly impact physical health, leading to symptoms like frequent urination and discomfort. If you feel that anxiety is a contributing factor, consider discussing this with a mental health professional who can provide strategies to manage stress and anxiety effectively.

In summary, while your symptoms may be concerning, they are not definitive indicators of cancer. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, particularly a urologist, can help clarify the situation. If you continue to feel uneasy about your diagnosis or treatment, seeking a second opinion is always a valid option. Remember, your health is paramount, and addressing these concerns proactively is essential.

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