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Common concerns

On this page  

Here’s a list of common concerns our Specialist Nurses regularly hear about. This section will tell you how we can help answer your question and give you the support you need.

Please be aware that our nurses are unable to diagnose a medical condition and any information provided should not replace any medical advice given by your doctor.

Diagnosis

  • I’ve heard about the PSA test, should I have one?  

    Choosing to have a PSA test is entirely up to you but we can discuss the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision. We’ll also help you understand your risk of prostate cancer.

    Read more about the PSA test

  • Can you explain what ____ means?  

    Through our specialist knowledge we can explain what the medical terms you may have heard mean in a plain and simple way.

  • I’ve been told to go away and think about which treatment I would like and I don’t know where to start?  

    It’s common for men to get a diagnosis of prostate cancer and feel overwhelmed. We can help you get through this difficult time and explain each option available to you and the pros and cons of those treatments, so you can make a choice right for you.

  • What is ‘the best’ treatment?  

    Depending on your situation there may not be an overall ‘best treatment’ and treatment options may be equally effective. However, everybody has different needs and different lives so we’ll help you understand what matters to you so that you can make a treatment decision that is most suited to you.

    Read more information about prostate cancer diagnosis

  • I think I’ve got problems peeing…  

    We can talk you through what’s currently happening so you can make sense of any issue you’re having. We’ll also suggest going to speak to your GP if we think something needs to be looked at more closely.

    Find out more about signs and symptoms

At a doctor's or hospital appointment

  • My appointment was so rushed…  

    Unfortunately many health professionals are incredibly busy which means appointment times can be over before you’ve had the chance to ask more questions or clarify something they’ve said. We consider ourselves to be complementary support to these appointments. So whether you need answers now or need help in knowing what to ask at your next appointment, please get in touch with us and we’ll help you get through it.

  • I’m a bit embarrassed to talk to my doctor but…  

    Because we’re not answering your questions face-to-face it may be easier to talk about something embarrassing over the phone or online, so give us a quick call or start a live chat. The important thing is you say what you need to say, so get in touch if we can help.

  • What should I ask at my next appointment?  

    There’s probably hundreds of things you want to ask and feel like there’s never enough time. We can help you prioritise the ‘need-to-ask questions’ so you leave your appointment with the information you need.

Emotional support

  • I’m struggling with side effects of treatment, is there anything I can do?  

    We can talk about how you're feeling and may be able to provide practical tips, help and support in coping with side effects. We can also guide you in the important questions to ask your doctor if further help or support is needed.

    Find out more about side effects of treatment

  • I feel overwhelmed  

    Dealing with prostate cancer can be overwhelming, and it may be useful just to get things out and have someone there who’ll just listen or help to make sense of your situation. We’re here to be that someone and have all the time you need. 

  • I feel lost/isolated/scared/low  

    A new diagnosis of cancer or living with uncertainty can be scary. Whether it's you or someone you care about, we are here to offer our support. We can also guide you in finding further support or help.

  • I’m struggling to support a loved one  

    Supporting someone with cancer can be hard. It’s OK to be frustrated, frightened or unsure at times. It might help to talk through some of these issues and understand what’s affecting you the most with a Specialist Nurse.

Your risk

  • I’ve been told I have an enlarged prostate...  

    We can discuss what every prostate problem means to you and how that can impact on your life.

  • What is my risk of prostate cancer?  

    We can talk to you about your individual situation and risk factors. If your father or brother is diagnosed with prostate cancer, this will affect your risk. We can help you to make sense of this, other risk factors and help you make decisions about what to do next.

    Find out more about the risk of prostate cancer

Living with advanced disease

  • I’ve been told my cancer isn't curable, but what can I expect?  

    If you or a loved one is living with advanced prostate cancer, there may be many questions, fears and uncertainties. We offer time to talk to you or those close to you about any of your concerns, as well as providing sensitive support and practical information about side effects of treatment or symptoms of your cancer.

  • I’ve heard about a new drug. Would it be suitable or how can I get it?  

    We stay up to date with new research and developments in treatment for prostate cancer and prostate disease. We are able to explore what may or may not be available or suitable for your situation and guide you in questions to ask your doctor.

    Find out more about living with advanced prostate cancer