Cancer is a genetic disease that occurs when cells begin to mutate and multiply uncontrollably. Though advanced stages may significantly affect quality of life, detecting cancer early often results in a better chance for treatment. This is why it is important to understand the symptoms. Here, the oncology team at Richmond University Medical Center covers common signs of bladder cancer and what to do after noticing them.
Early Indicators
Many cases of bladder cancer are diagnosed early because of more apparent symptoms. To ensure a prompt diagnosis, patients should seek medical attention at the first sign of bladder cancer. These are the most common indicators of bladder cancer:
- Blood in urine: Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is frequently the first sign of bladder cancer. In some cases, there may be enough blood to discolor urine to orange, pink, or red. In others, faint traces are only found with a urine test (urinalysis).
- Irritation when urinating: Bleeding is sometimes accompanied by irritation. Patients may feel pain or a burning sensation whenever they use the bathroom. Men and individuals designated men at birth (DMAB) may also experience pain in the groin area before and after peeing.
- Changing urination habits: Early bladder cancer can also disrupt normal urination habits. Patients may need to go more often than usual, even when their bladder is not full. They may also have trouble passing urine, despite feeling an urgent need to do so.
All these symptoms are commonly caused by other urology conditions. Urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, overactive bladder syndrome, and enlarged prostates (in men) are all more likely culprits than bladder cancer. They are also potentially severe. Having a physician assess these symptoms can help guide a diagnosis to determine if signs may point toward cancer or another condition.
Advanced Signs of Bladder Cancer
As with other cancers, bladder cancer is a progressive disease. This means that it gets more severe over time as the tumor continues to grow and mutate. Symptoms increase in intensity, and new symptoms may begin to appear. Patients with advanced forms of bladder cancer may experience:
- Inability to urinate
- Lower back pain, especially localized to one side
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Feeling weak or exhausted
- Swollen feet
- Bone pain
Again, many of these symptoms may be caused by a different health condition. This is why seeking a medical diagnosis when these symptoms appear is crucial. A knowledgeable physician can ensure a correct diagnosis and recommend the most effective treatment.
Who Is at Risk of Bladder Cancer?
Bladder cancer is the fourth most common cancer in men. It is about four times more common in men than in women – especially those over the age of 55. However, this statistic does not mean women are not susceptible to bladder cancer. When women are diagnosed with bladder cancer, it is often more advanced. Less focus has been given to bladder cancer in women historically, so patients might not always know to self-screen for symptoms.
While physicians do not always know what causes cancer, certain features of a patient’s lifestyle, environmental conditions, or medical history may indicate a higher risk. These include:
- Smoking cigarettes, pipes, or cigars
- Heavy exposure to secondhand smoke
- Exposure to certain chemicals, often due to work environment
- Previous radiation or chemotherapy treatments
- Previous cases of bladder cancer
Though these factors may increase a patient’s risk of developing cancer, they are not guarantees. Neither are these factors limitations on who is at risk. Patients may develop cancer even when none of these are true – so it is never safe to assume immunity.
Responding to Bladder Cancer Symptoms
If patients notice signs of bladder cancer, their first action should be to contact their primary care physician. The physician will order tests, such as cancer screenings, to confirm the symptoms’ cause. Early diagnosis is the best way to ensure a successful treatment and recovery.
Bladder cancer is not usually fatal by itself. If neglected, however, its symptoms can be devastating. Cancer cells can also spread through the bladder walls and into other parts of the body, where additional tumors begin to grow. Advanced stages of cancer are difficult to treat.
If caught early, however, bladder cancer is often easier to treat. If the condition is identified quickly, the tumor may be removed before it has a chance to spread far. Patients have a better chance of full recovery and can go back to their active, fulfilling, and symptom-free lives.
Seek Diagnosis for Bladder Cancer
Cancer is a serious diagnosis with a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. Fortunately, a fast response usually leads to full recovery. Richmond University Medical Center aims to educate patients on the signs of bladder cancer, improving their chances for an early diagnosis. Residents of Staten Island who are interested in learning more can contact us to speak with an oncologist or schedule an appointment to discuss their symptoms.
