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I've Had A Pain In My Groin For Six Months And My Friend Say It Could Be Serious. Help!
EIGHT in ten women in the UK aren't checking their breasts regularly and a third admit they never check themselves for signs of breast cancer, research by Estée Lauder found in 2022.
This is shocking as two-thirds of cases are detected in this way.
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Sun columnist Dr Zoe advises readers on their healthCredit: Olivia WestI'm in my third year as an ambassador for its breast cancer campaign and we have been focusing on the groups that are least likely to check – including South Asian women, women under 40 and Black women.
Attending mammograms, women are invited between the ages of 50 and 71, is another way to spot breast cancer early. You can ask for mammograms after 71.
Aside from a lump in the breast, chest, collarbone or armpit, other signs to look and feel for are: changes to the skin or nipple, a rash, crusting or discharge around the nipple, or changes in size, shape or colour of the breasts.
See your GP for any changes so they can rule out cancer, or detect it as soon as possible.
Here is a selection of what readers have asked this week. . .
SON'S REAR CONDITIONQ) CAN you please tell me anything about desmin myopathy?
My 51-year-old son has this condition but we are not being told anything about it and I am worried. It is awful to see him suffer in this way.
A) Desmin is a protein that helps maintain the structure and strength of muscles.
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The cooking utensils that could be exposing you to 'cancer-causing chemicals'Think of it as scaffolding that helps hold muscle fibres together, keeping them aligned and all working properly.
I'm a hair transplant surgeon – 4 unconventional DIY growth tricks, try crushing an ingredient packed with seleniumDesmin myopathy (also known as myofibrillar myopathy) is a rare genetic condition that causes muscle weakness, typically in the legs first.
It can slowly spread to the body, neck, face, respiratory muscles and sometimes the heart muscle, causing cardiomyopathy.
The severity and progression of symptoms can vary greatly between individuals.
While this can be a genetic disease, it is not always inherited.
Sometimes the genetic mutation is sporadic, meaning it can arise in people without a family history of the disease.
It is very difficult to watch a loved one suffer, especially with a rare condition that isn't well understood – the first case of desmin myopathy wasn't identified until the late Nineties.
Does he have someone to attend hospital appointments with, and share the worry with?
Sometimes when we receive a diagnosis we try to shield our loved ones from information that might upset them. Letting your son know that you want to know everything so that you can help support him may help get some honest conversations started.
Think of ways in which you can offer support in the meantime – cooking meals, supporting childcare, shopping or housework if that is relevant.
I strongly recommend asking your son to engage with specialist nurses or therapists who are part of his healthcare team as they can provide more detailed care and support.
Physiotherapy, mobility aids, and respiratory monitoring are often used to manage this condition, and psychological support can be extremely helpful.
Please don't hesitate to contact patient groups or charities, such as Muscular Dystrophy UK. They can offer valuable information and emotional support.
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The reader has had four knee replacements on his right leg and has just finished radiotherapy for prostate cancerCredit: GettyQ) I AM a male, 67 years old, and for the past six months I have had pain in my left groin, particularly when walking or standing for a long time.
I have had four knee replacements on my right leg and have just finished radiotherapy for prostate cancer. I was previously very sporty. I am still playing golf regularly.
Many friends have mentioned this as a sign of needing a hip replacement.
Do you think it may be that, or could it be something else?
A) Osteoarthritis in the hip is a common cause of groin pain in men over 60 and could explain your symptoms.
For example, hip pain can sometimes worsen with walking or standing, and can even affect sleep when lying down.
The multiple knee surgeries may have chan-ged how you walk, putting extra strain on your hips, and potentially accelerating any wear and tear on the joint.
Radiotherapy itself is not linked to osteoarthritis, but the overall stress on your body from cancer treatments, such as hormonal therapy, could play a role in how you recover from or manage joint issues.
You mention having been sporty, and a lifetime of sports that involve high speeds, pivoting, kicking or high impact such as football, rugby, and running can increase the risk of hip osteoarthritis. Having said that, it is important to know that remaining active can help maintain the health of the joint now.
Furthermore, keeping the muscles strong can alleviate the pain.
In particular, lower-impact activities such as cycling, swimming and walking can be beneficial.
Being physically active has many other health benefits, so please do keep it up.
That said, the pain may not actually be coming from the hip joint at all.
Other causes should be considered, such as referred pain from the spine or pelvic region, or even lingering effects from radiotherapy.
An assessment by your GP or an orthopaedic specialist can help determine if this is a hip issue, or something else.
If surgery is a concern, non-surgical options like physiotherapy and pain management can help, and some lifestyle adjustments such as weight loss may also provide relief.
STOPPING MEDS WRECKED MY HAIR3
This reader is devastated after stopping medication saw most of her hair fall outCredit: GettyQ) I USED to be on vitamin D and alendronic acid for osteoporosis but after about six years, my doctor advised me to stop them.
Within a few months, most of my hair (body and head) fell out and now my fingernails are so brittle. If I mention any of my worries to my doctors they make me feel like a hypochondriac.
I'm not accepting "old age" and my once thick, healthy, shiny hair and lovely nails are gone.
A) I'd be interested to know why you were told to stop taking your treatment.
Most likely it's the alendronic acid that's been stopped, due to side effects including heartburn, swallowing difficulty or other issues with the gullet. It may also be stopped if your kidney function goes below a certain threshold.
I would guess that the vitamin D is fine to continue and you should check if it's OK to restart this. Vitamin D is something we should all be supplementing with from October to March anyway, and for someone with osteoporosis, I would advise supplementing all year round.
Vitamin D deficiency can affect both hair and nail health. Iron, B12, folate, zinc and magnesium deficiency should be ruled out too. If you wanted to have this assessed further and have the funds to do so, you could see a hair and scalp specialist (trichologist).
They will use a special camera to look at the hair follicles and give you bespoke advice about supplements, hair products and lifestyle to optimise your hair health.
I can understand you may feel fobbed off by your GP. It can be very difficult to give patients additional time when we are so limited if the issue is raised at the end of an appointment.
Our hair and nails do change as we age, but it should not be assumed to be all age-related, especially if there was a rapid change when you stopped taking the medication.
7 Key Symptoms Of Prostate Cancer To Watch For
Prostate cancer is a major health concern for men worldwide — often developing without any immediate warning signs. Catching the symptoms early can mean the difference between successful treatment and prolonged struggles with the disease. By staying informed, men can take charge of their health, identify warning signs and seek medical attention promptly. Let's delve into the seven key symptoms of prostate cancer that every man should watch for and why they matter.
Understanding prostate cancerProstate cancer begins in the prostate gland — which is located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. This gland plays a crucial role in producing fluid for semen. Though many cases of prostate cancer are slow-growing and may not present immediate dangers, some types can be aggressive and spread quickly. Early detection is crucial in improving the chances of successful treatment and survival.
Symptom 1: Frequent urination, especially at nightOne of the most noticeable symptoms is frequent urination — particularly at night. If you find yourself waking up several times to urinate, it could be a sign that something is off. The prostate surrounds the urethra — which carries urine from the bladder out of the body. When the prostate enlarges, it can press against the urethra — causing this frequent urge. This symptom is easily dismissed as a normal part of aging, but it should be discussed with a doctor if it persists.
Why it matters: Frequent nighttime urination — also known as nocturia — can greatly impact the quality of sleep and overall well-being. It is often one of the earliest signs of a problem in the prostate.
Symptom 2: Difficulty starting or stopping urinationMen with prostate cancer may struggle to start urinating, or once they begin, they may find it hard to maintain a steady stream. This difficulty may also include a sensation that the bladder hasn't completely emptied. It's crucial to pay attention to changes in your urinary patterns — as they can signal issues with the prostate gland.
Why it matters: These symptoms can be caused by the prostate gland blocking the urethra, and while they may seem minor, they can quickly progress to more serious urinary complications. This issue could signal a non-cancerous enlargement called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), but it may also be an indicator of prostate cancer.
Symptom 3: Weak or interrupted urine flowWeak or interrupted urine flow is another symptom to keep on the radar. Some men might notice that their urine stream is not as strong as it used to be or that it suddenly stops and starts. This can be particularly distressing, as it may indicate that the prostate is pressing against or blocking the urethra — making it difficult for urine to pass through.
Why it matters: An altered urine stream is not something to brush off. It's a sign that the prostate could be undergoing changes — either due to cancer, an infection or other health conditions. Seeking medical advice promptly can help to pinpoint the exact cause.
Symptom 4: Blood in urine or semenFinding blood in the urine or semen is an alarming symptom and should never be ignored. While the sight of blood can be shocking, it's crucial to approach it calmly and understand that it may be an indicator of an underlying issue. Hematuria — blood in the urine — or blood in semen could result from many factors, including infections, inflammation or, in more serious cases, prostate cancer.
Why it matters: Blood in the urine or semen is a red flag for many potential health concerns. Although not exclusively linked to prostate cancer, this symptom necessitates an immediate discussion with a health care provider to determine its cause.
Symptom 5: Pain or discomfort in the pelvic areaPersistent pain or discomfort in the pelvic area is another symptom that men should watch for. This pain may radiate to the back, hips or thighs and can be a dull ache or a sharp pain. If the discomfort is persistent and does not go away with standard pain relief, it is a strong indication that something more serious could be happening.
Why it matters: Pelvic pain can be caused by a variety of conditions — including infections or inflammation — but it may also be an indicator that cancer has spread beyond the prostate. Early intervention is critical in these situations.
Symptom 6: Painful urination or ejaculationPainful urination or ejaculation can significantly affect the quality of life. If either of these activities becomes consistently painful, it could indicate an issue with the prostate. The pain may feel like a burning sensation or sharp discomfort and could be a sign of infection or cancer.
Why it matters: While many might dismiss painful urination as a temporary irritation, persistent pain needs evaluation. Prostatitis — an inflammation of the prostate — might be the cause, but it can also be linked to more serious issues like prostate cancer. Men should seek a thorough examination if these symptoms appear.
Symptom 7: Erectile dysfunction or changes in sexual functionErectile dysfunction (ED) is another symptom that can be associated with prostate cancer. Though ED is common among aging men for various reasons, a sudden onset of difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection could be related to prostate health. Additionally, decreased sexual desire or changes in orgasm quality can be subtle signs.
Why it matters: ED is not only physically frustrating but also emotionally taxing. If prostate cancer is the cause, early detection and treatment are key. It's essential to distinguish whether ED is linked to psychological factors, medication or a deeper health concern like prostate cancer.
The importance of early detectionProstate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among men, yet it is often treatable when detected early. These seven symptoms are key indicators to keep an eye on, and any one of them warrants a conversation with a health care professional. Men should feel empowered to speak openly with their doctors about any changes or concerns in their health, particularly as they age.
Annual screenings such as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and a digital rectal exam (DRE) are recommended for men, especially those over the age of 50 or those with a family history of prostate cancer. Regular health care check-ups and prompt attention to these symptoms can significantly improve outcomes.
Supporting a loved one with prostate cancerIf you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to approach the topic with care and compassion. Understanding that these changes can be difficult to discuss or admit, being supportive and encouraging prompt medical attention are crucial. Early detection can save lives, and spreading awareness about the symptoms of prostate cancer can lead to earlier intervention and better health outcomes.
Don't ignore the signsProstate cancer may often develop quietly, but it is far from a silent enemy. Being vigilant about the key symptoms — such as frequent urination, difficulty urinating, weak urine flow, blood in urine or semen, pelvic pain, painful urination or ejaculation and erectile dysfunction — can help catch the disease early. Recognizing the signs and understanding their significance is the first step toward taking proactive control of one's health.
If you notice any of these symptoms, reach out to a health care professional for evaluation. Don't wait for symptoms to worsen — early detection and timely treatment can make all the difference in fighting prostate cancer.
This story was created using AI technology.
Why Prostate Cancer Spreads
Prostate cancer starts when cells in the prostate gland grow out of control. Those cells can spread to other parts of the body and affect healthy tissue.
This can happen for several reasons.
Early Treatment FailureWhen prostate cancer is discovered early, treatment usually works. Most men are able to live cancer-free for many years.
But sometimes, treatment doesn't work and prostate cancer can slowly grow. This can happen after surgery (called a radical prostatectomy) or radiation therapy.
Sometimes called a chemical recurrence, it's when the cancer survives inside the prostate or reappears and spreads to other tissues and organs. The cancer is usually microscopic and grows very slowly.
You and your doctor will work together to keep an eye on the cancer as it grows. You may come up with a new treatment plan.
Active SurveillanceBecause prostate cancer cells usually grow very slowly, some men might not need treatment right away.
Your doctor might suggest something called active surveillance. That means instead of having surgery or radiation right away, you and your doctor will track your cancer for a while to see if it gets more serious. You'll have regular tests, like PSA levels, and possibly biopsies and MRI. And if your cancer gets more aggressive, you and your doctor will figure out the next steps.
This plan is usually for men who don't have symptoms and whose cancer is expected to grow slowly. It's also an option when surgery or radiation could be harmful.
Watchful WaitingAnother potential plan is watchful waiting. Like active surveillance, this avoids surgery and radiation, and you and your doctor watch the progress of your cancer. But with watchful waiting, you don't have regular testing.
Most often, this is the best option for people who don't want or can't have other cancer treatments, or those who have another serious medical condition. The risk with this approach is that the cancer might grow and spread between checkups. If it does, this could limit which treatment you could take and if your cancer can be cured.
Treatment IssuesWhen you're diagnosed with cancer, as with any medical issue, it's important that you follow your treatment plan. That can mean scheduling regular checkups or, if radiation therapy is part of your treatment, being sure to go to all scheduled radiation visits.
If you miss some of them, you may have a greater chance that your cancer will spread.
In one study, for example, men who missed two or more sessions during their treatment had a greater chance that their cancer would come back. That was even though they eventually finished their course of radiation.
Late DiagnosisExperts disagree on whether all men should get tested for prostate cancer and at what age screenings and the discussions about them should take place. Exams such as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test can help find cancer early. But there are questions about if the benefits of screening tests always outweigh the risks.
Some groups suggest that men at a normal risk for prostate cancer should have prostate screening tests when they turn 50. Some men might want to get tests earlier if they have risk factors that make them more likely to get prostate cancer.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force says that testing may be right for some men ages 55 to 69. They recommend that men talk to their doctor to discuss the potential risks and benefits of being tested.
The American Cancer Society recommends starting screenings at age 50, possibly earlier for men at a high risk. But first, men should discuss the pros and cons of the PSA test with their doctor to decide if it's right for them.
The American Urological Association says men ages 55 to 69 should talk to their doctor about the benefits and risks of a PSA test. The group also says:
Early prostate cancer usually has no symptoms. You may go to see the doctor when you have trouble urinating or pain in your hips and back. That's when prostate cancer may be discovered.
After that, your doctor may find out that your cancer has already spread beyond your prostate. If that's possible, you may be asked to take a test like a:
Knowing if your cancer has spread will help your doctor work with you to choose your best treatment.
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