questions about hubby's PSA numbers

Deeja, sorry to hear his story. He should have followed up on this a while ago but you already know that.

A PSA of 30 after primary treatment is quite concerning. He should seek out a well known and respected cancer center and get a complete workup on his current cancer status. A bone scan is just one part of things that should be done now (plus PSA, CT and PET scans). It would be probably be recommended that he go on hormone therapy as soon as the scans are done which typically knocks the PSA down and may provide some relief.

Once the doctors have determined the location(s) and extent of the cancer, treatment options can be evaluated as applicable. I don't know how long he will live either since minimal information is available at this point, only a PSA of 30 last summer? There are a lot of treatment options nowadays and there is no reason to think that he is untreatable.

Deeja,
More information on your husband's diagnosis would be helpful, but it appears the information is not at your disposal. At this point his treatment likely would entail what is called androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). He would get shots and/or pills that shut down the production of his testosterone (T). The T "fuels" the cancer. As you can imagine, not having T can have onerous side-effects for a man. I suspect his doctor has discussed this treatment wit your husband, which may explain his reluctance for further treatment. Many men are afraid of it, as was I. It has turned out not to be as bad as I imagined.

ADT certainly isn't fun, but the side-effects are manageable. There is a very good chance it can add years to your husband's life. Many, many of us on the Forum have had great success with these treatments.

It's a good sign he has agreed to go back to the doctor.

If his reluctance to seek treatment stems from concerns about ADT, perhaps his doctor could have him talk to other patients who have received ADT. That might allay his concerns. He could also reach out to members here. He should also be informed about what happens if he decides to forego treatment. I believe that the end is very painful.

Deeja, sorry to hear of your husband’s PSA increase. I did not have surgery, but had radiation. I am also on hormone therapy as many here are. At the minimum he should be on hormone therapy. My side effects are some weight gain and some day sweats. Neither is that bad as I continue to do weight exercises and lots of work outdoors. My PSA has dropped down to undetectable. That means that my cancer is being kept down. Also, tell him that there are many that have gone through what he has, but doing nothing with a rising PSA is not the answer to a long life. I am not a doctor, only IMHO. My best wishes.
Jack

Deeja, I am sorry for your husband's situation - as yours as well. He needs to get to a medical oncologist who specializes in prostate cancer. His cancer is likely back and the longer he waits the more problematical it will become. He needs treatment now.

If you can get him to come here and discuss things he will get lots of great advice and information. But the most important thing is to get him to treatment.

Good luck,

Jim