Signs of Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer is a serious disease. Early detection is extremely important. The sooner the disease is identified, the higher the chance of successful treatment.
Early Signs of Bladder Cancer
The early signs of bladder cancer, particularly the ones that occur without pain, are easy to overlook. They mimic less serious conditions, such as a urinary tract infection, kidney stones and bladder stones. There are three symptoms that can occur before cancer spreads beyond the bladder:
1. Blood in the Urine
This is often the first noticeable sign of bladder cancer because even a tiny collection of cancer cells can cause the bladder wall to bleed. If the urine takes on an orange, pink or red hue it’s time to see the doctor.
It’s important to note that bleeding may come and go but there should never be blood in the urine. Don’t ignore the symptoms, even if it goes away. This symptom can present on its own, without the other signs listed below.
2. Changes in Urinary Habits
If you find that you are running to the bathroom more frequently than normal to pee, pay attention. This may be an urge to pee even though the bladder isn’t full, or you just went. Alternatively, you could find yourself waking up more often throughout the night to relieve yourself.
3. Pain While Urinating
Any pain while urinating is a sign of a problem. Even if it’s just a little pain when you first start to pee.
The early signs of bladder cancer, particularly the ones that occur without pain, are easy to overlook. They mimic less serious conditions, such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones and bladder stones. Three symptoms can occur before cancer spreads beyond the bladder:
Advanced Symptoms
As the cancer spreads to other parts of the body, symptoms become more serious. At later stages of the disease, one may experience the following:
- Weight loss: Sudden, unintended weight loss is often a sign of a serious underlying health issue. This tends to be accompanied by a loss of appetite.
- Experiencing pain in one or more places: As the cancer begins to spread it can cause pain in various places. Be on the lookout for lower back pain on one side, abdominal pain, bone pain and/or pelvic pain.
- Swelling in feet: If the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, this can cause the feet to swell. This is because cancer prevents the body from getting rid of the lymph fluid and it pools in the feet.
- Weakness and fatigue: Sleeping more than usual, feeling drained or a general sense of malice for days on end is not normal. Particularly when it interferes with daily activities.
- Abnormal mass: Lumps or masses that sporadically form are never a good sign. If you detect a lump in the pelvic area, or anywhere else for that matter, report it to your doctor.
What is Bladder Cancer?
That’s a good question! Bladder cancer arises when the specialized cells lining the bladder wall, known as urothelial cells, begin to multiply uncontrollably. These cells, which normally allow the bladder to expand and contract, can disrupt the bladder's function and lead to serious health issues.
Who is at Risk?
Men are diagnosed with bladder cancer up to four times more often than women. It is thought that women may be underdiagnosed since early signs of bladder cancer mimic a urinary tract infection which is common in women. Other risk factors include:
- Smoking and tobacco use.
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals from working in various industries.
- Genetic predisposition.
- Previous exposure to radiation and/or chemotherapy treatments.
- Experiencing chronic urinary tract infections or other bladder problems.
- Long-term use of urinary catheters.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor right away if you have any of the above symptoms. Keep in mind that just because you have symptoms doesn’t mean you have bladder cancer. Early symptoms can be indicative of many other less serious conditions. In any case, it is important to see a doctor early on to get treatment before symptoms get worse.
During your health screening, the doctor will ask about your symptoms and how long you have been having them. A simple urine test will be issued, which can check for many different conditions. Do not be afraid to ask questions.
Getting Care
If you are diagnosed with bladder cancer you will work with your doctor for a personalized treatment plan. Treatment can vary from person to person depending on the stage of the cancer, the individual’s tolerance to each treatment option and where the cancer is located.
It will be important for the doctor to determine if the cancer has stayed local, in the bladder or if it has spread to other organs. In either case, don’t lose hope as treatment options are available.