Stage 4 prostate cancer

Hi, Tod

Thanks for getting in touch.

My name is Eileen, and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists working on the Macmillan support line. 

I’m sorry to hear about your dad and can appreciate that you are worried about him given his physical deterioration.

It’s difficult to know whether it is his prostate cancer which is causing the symptoms he’s experiencing or whether other factors are involved.

You advised that he had radiotherapy to the spine a year ago and as he is now experiencing swollen ankles, weakness and can barely walk, given these symptoms it’s important that he is reviewed by a doctor as a matter of urgency to determine whether he has a malignant spinal cord compression.  This condition can cause weakness in the limbs, changes in sensation and difficulty in walking. It can also affect bladder and bowel function.

If a spinal cord compression is ruled out the doctor will be able to undertake diagnostic tests to understand what is causing your dad’s symptoms. We would advise you to contact your dad’s Oncologist today but if you have any difficulty getting in touch with the Consultant, please contact his GP or the nurses at NHS111. Make them aware that you have been in contact with us and let them know about our concerns.

I do hope this information is helpful but please know that you can call one of our nurses to discuss things further.

Take care and best wishes,

 Eileen

(Cancer Information Nurse Specialist)

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

Ref:KM

Thankyou x

Hi my dad has been checked for a possible spinal compression and looking for that which he may well have, they found Anemia and possibly the start of Parkinson’s disease. I am now really really worried about how long he has left? Is this common with advanced prostate cancer patients?

Hi Tod,

My name is Barbara and like Eileen, I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

Thank you for your reply and I hope you have been finding the online community supportive. 

I’m sorry to hear about your dad.  It is understandable you are feeling worried.

At the Macmillan Support line, we do not have access to any NHS records which unfortunately means we are unable to say how long your dad may have left.  I can appreciate this potential diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease has raised new worries and concerns.  I would encourage you to speak with your dad’s healthcare team or palliative care team (with your dad’s consent) to discuss your concerns.  They will be able to look at his NHS records and based on his diagnosis and condition maybe able to tell you if they have an idea how long your dad has left and if this is common.

Looking after someone with cancer can be very tiring and overwhelming.  It might be helpful to have a look at our website for further advice and support specifically for people who are supporting others with cancer.

You are also welcome to give us a call on our Macmillan Support Line to discuss your concerns or if you need support on 0808 808 0000.

I hope this information is of some help. 

Best wishes,

Barbara G, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist.

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.

Ref:KS/BG