Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the bladder, the organ that stores urine. It is one of the most common types of cancer, with over 80,000 new cases diagnosed in the United States each year.
The early stages of bladder cancer may not cause any symptoms, which is why it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms so that early treatment can be initiated. In this article, we will discuss the early stage symptoms of bladder cancer.
Blood in the urine
Blood in the urine, also known as hematuria, is the most common and noticeable symptom of bladder cancer. It may appear pink, red, or brown in color and may be visible to the naked eye.
Blood in the urine may also appear intermittently and may not be present every time you urinate. It is important to note that blood in the urine can also be caused by other medical conditions, such as kidney stones or urinary tract infections, but if you notice blood in your urine, it is important to see a doctor immediately.
Frequent urination
If you find yourself having to go to the bathroom more often than usual, it could be a sign of early stage bladder cancer.
This symptom is often associated with urinary tract infections or an enlarged prostate gland in men, but it can also be a sign of bladder cancer.
Painful urination
Painful urination, also known as dysuria, is another common symptom of early stage bladder cancer. This symptom may feel like a burning sensation or a sharp pain when you urinate.
Painful urination can also be caused by other medical conditions, such as urinary tract infections or sexually transmitted infections, but if you are experiencing this symptom, it is important to seek medical attention.
Difficulty urinating
If you are having difficulty starting or stopping urination, or if you feel like your bladder is not emptying completely, it could be a sign of early stage bladder cancer.
This symptom is often associated with an enlarged prostate gland in men, but it can also be a sign of bladder cancer.
Lower back pain
Lower back pain that is not related to a specific injury or condition could be a sign of early stage bladder cancer. This symptom may also be accompanied by abdominal pain or pelvic pain.
It is important to note that lower back pain can also be caused by other medical conditions, so it is important to see a doctor if you are experiencing this symptom.
Weight loss
Unexplained weight loss may be a symptom of early stage bladder cancer. This symptom is often associated with advanced stages of cancer, but it can also be a sign of early stage cancer.
If you are losing weight without trying, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause.
Fatigue
Fatigue, or feeling tired all the time, may be a symptom of early stage bladder cancer. This symptom is often associated with other medical conditions, such as anemia or thyroid problems, but it can also be a sign of bladder cancer.
Loss of appetite
If you are experiencing a loss of appetite or you are not hungry even when you have not eaten for a long time, it could be a sign of early stage bladder cancer.
This symptom is often associated with advanced stages of cancer, but it can also be a sign of early stage cancer.
Fever
A low-grade fever that is not related to an infection may be a sign of early stage bladder cancer. This symptom is often associated with advanced stages of cancer, but it can also be a sign of early stage cancer.
Swelling in the feet
Swelling in the feet or legs may be a symptom of early stage bladder cancer. This symptom is often associated with advanced stages of cancer, but it can also be a sign of early stage cancer.
Swelling in the feet or legs can also be caused by other medical conditions, such as heart or kidney problems, so it is important to see a doctor if you are experiencing this symptom.