Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the bladder. If not diagnosed and treated early, it can become very serious and difficult to treat once it reaches an advanced stage.
This is why it is important to be aware of the symptoms of advanced stage bladder cancer.
What is advanced stage bladder cancer?
Advanced stage bladder cancer is when the cancer has spread beyond the bladder to other parts of the body. This is known as metastatic bladder cancer.
The most common sites for bladder cancer to spread include the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, bones, and peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity).
Symptoms of advanced stage bladder cancer
The symptoms of advanced stage bladder cancer can vary depending on where the cancer has spread in the body. Some of the most common symptoms include:.
1. Pain
Advanced stage bladder cancer can cause pain in various parts of the body. For example, if the cancer has spread to the bones, it can cause bone pain. If the cancer has spread to the lungs, it can cause chest pain.
If the cancer has spread to the peritoneum, it can cause abdominal pain.
2. Fatigue
People with advanced stage bladder cancer may feel very tired and lack energy. This is because cancer cells use up a lot of the body’s energy.
Additionally, the body’s immune system may be working hard to fight the cancer, which can also lead to fatigue.
3. Weight loss
Unexplained weight loss is a common symptom of advanced stage bladder cancer. Cancer cells need a lot of energy to grow and can take nutrients away from healthy cells, leading to weight loss.
4. Difficulty breathing
If the cancer has spread to the lungs, it can cause difficulty breathing. This can be due to inflammation in the lungs or because the cancer is blocking the airways.
5. Swollen lymph nodes
The lymph nodes are part of the immune system and are located throughout the body. If cancer cells spread to the lymph nodes, they can cause them to become swollen. Swollen lymph nodes can be felt as lumps under the skin.
6. Blood in urine
Advanced stage bladder cancer can cause blood to appear in the urine. This is because the cancer can irritate the lining of the bladder and cause it to bleed.
7. Changes in bowel habits
If the cancer has spread to the peritoneum, it can cause changes in bowel habits. This can include constipation, diarrhea, or pain when passing stool.
8. Jaundice
Jaundice is a condition where the skin and eyes become yellow. It is caused by a buildup of bilirubin in the blood. If the cancer has spread to the liver, it can cause jaundice.
9. Weakness in the legs
If the cancer has spread to the spine, it can cause weakness in the legs. This can make it difficult to walk or carry out daily activities.
10. Numbness or tingling
If the cancer has spread to the nerves, it can cause numbness or tingling in various parts of the body.
Conclusion
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. While these symptoms can be caused by many different conditions, they can also be signs of advanced stage bladder cancer.
By getting a diagnosis early, you can increase your chances of successful treatment.
