I have previously posted my journey to surgery and subsequent recovery. I was so grateful for the support prior to diagnosis and after but thought it appropriate to do an update.
Waterworks are generally good. Bladder capacity isn't great and may wake once or twice a night. Beer seems to give a better sleep! ED can be intrusive to fulfilling impulsive thoughts but one finds a way. I've tried injections but didn't really get on with them. Was on 20mg of a caverject alternative but it appeared to fill the tank only halfway. The pump works best, is less uncomfortable and we have got used to it. I'm still on cialis 5mg daily and find the pump more effective in the afternoon than mornings.
My operation was August 2024 and PSA was 0.05 6.weeks post op. Adenocarcinoma, P2t2c, 4+3, with margins clear. It has unfortunately been rising gradually every 3 months to 0.12 this month. This was a jump from 0.09 in December 2025. My cancer nurse has been concerned and advised I'll be called in for scans. I've been thinking for a while that my trajectory will probably lead to some salvage rt but disappointing to be approaching it.
I'm conscious many have gone through the same and have a belief the long term outcomes are equivalent to the original surgical approach. It is what is but not looking forwards to holding a full bladder for any length of time!
A question though: given the PSA is still below 0.2 is there a likelihood of any intervention? Thanks folks.
Hello RAS1961
I am so sorry to read of your rising PSA. After surgery intervention is normally after 3 consecutive rises or a rise to 0.2 or more. This is the general rule of thumb - but all NHS Trusts work to their own rules.
As for Radiotherapy - not all prostate radiotherapy is empty bowel - full bladder. Some hospital trusts do empty bowel empty bladder (mine at The Christie Oldham was empty bladder!).
I wish you well moving forward.
Best wishes - Brian.
Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
Strength, Courage, Faith, Hope, Defiance, VICTORY.
I am a Macmillan volunteer.
