Cancer can affect the tissues of the bladder, resulting in abnormal cell growth that forms tumors in the bladder lining or deeper bladder layers. Recognizing the signs of this cancer while in the early stages helps improve treatment outcomes. Here are eight signs of bladder cancer:
1. Blood in the Urine
Blood in the urine, or hematuria, is commonly the first sign of bladder cancer. Depending on its concentration, the blood may cause urine to appear pink or red. Hematuria can be painless or accompany symptoms like urgent urination. Doctors conduct several tests to determine the cause of this symptom, including urinalysis and cystoscopy. They use these tests to rule out infection and diagnose bladder cancer.
2. Pelvic Pain
Tumors growing within the bladder or spreading to nearby structures may cause pelvic or abdominal pain and discomfort. Due to the bladder’s location, it can impact the pelvic region, with pain ranging from a mild ache to intense cramping sensations. This pelvic pain may occur between urination or become more apparent during urination. Report any ongoing pelvic pain to a doctor for further testing and diagnosis.
3. Weak Urine Flow
A weak urine flow and other urination difficulties may indicate cancer-related obstructions. As some bladder tumors grow, they obstruct the outflow of urine from the bladder. This blockage results in a weak, slow, or irregular urine stream. It may make it difficult to start urination or maintain a steady flow.
4. Frequent Urination
Bladder irritation from bladder cancer can increase the urge to urinate more frequently. You may find yourself making more trips to the bathroom, even without consuming much liquid or foods high in water content. Some tumors also obstruct the bladder, preventing you from emptying the urine completely. This retained urine creates a continual urge to urinate, even after using the bathroom.
5. Back Pressure
A growing tumor can obstruct urine flow from the bladder to the ureters, causing urine to back up into the kidneys. This hydronephrosis creates pressure on the kidneys. You may feel pressure and pain in your lower back on one or both sides. Back pressure from a blocked ureteral pathway often signals the need for prompt medical evaluation.
6. Fatigue
Cancer cells can interfere with the body’s nutrient absorption and energy production, resulting in fatigue. While not everyone experiences fatigue, it is a possible sign that can accompany other symptoms like hematuria and increased urination frequency. Chronic fatigue from cancer may not improve with sleep and rest.
7. Weight Loss
Unexpected weight loss may signal that the body is directing resources to fight cancer or that the tumor is starting to impact digestion. It is a symptom of advanced bladder cancer, along with a loss of appetite. Unintentional weight loss, especially when paired with other warning signs, warrants further evaluation and should be reported to your healthcare provider.
8. Fever
The body’s fight against cancer cells may lower immune function, leaving you vulnerable to opportunistic infections. Fevers without an identifiable viral or bacterial cause sometimes stem from cancers. Seek attention for persistent fevers that linger for weeks.
Get Tested for Bladder Cancer
Recognizing signs of bladder cancer can prompt an earlier diagnosis and treatment. Schedule diagnostic screenings with a urologist if you experience hematuria, pelvic pain, or weak urine flow. Doctors diagnose this cancer using urine samples, cystoscopy, CT scans, and MRIs to view internal structures. They also confirm the presence of cancer cells through tissue biopsy. Contact a urologist today to get tested if you’re experiencing signs of bladder cancer.
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