Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the kidney. It is among the top 10 most common cancers in both men and women.

While kidney cancer is often asymptomatic in its early stages, there are certain symptoms that should never be ignored. Identifying these symptoms early on can lead to an earlier diagnosis and potentially improve the chances of successful treatment.

1. Persistent back pain

One of the most common symptoms of kidney cancer is persistent back pain. This pain usually occurs in the lower back or on one side of the body. It may not be relieved by rest or over-the-counter pain medications.

If you experience ongoing back pain that doesn’t go away, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

2. Blood in the urine

Blood in the urine, also known as hematuria, is another important symptom of kidney cancer. It can range from a few red blood cells that are not visible to the naked eye, to large amounts of blood that discolor the urine.

Hematuria is not always accompanied by pain, making it essential to seek medical attention if you notice blood in your urine.

3. Fatigue and weight loss

Unexplained fatigue and weight loss can be indicative of various health issues, including kidney cancer. Cancer cells consume a lot of energy from the body, leading to a feeling of constant tiredness.

If you have been consistently feeling excessively tired or experiencing unexplained weight loss, it’s important to have a medical evaluation to rule out any underlying causes, including kidney cancer.

4. Abdominal mass or swelling

In some cases, a palpable mass or swelling in the abdominal area can indicate kidney cancer. This usually occurs when the tumor grows in size and can be felt by pressing on the abdomen.

If you notice any unusual lumps or swelling, particularly in the abdomen or lower back, it’s crucial to have it assessed by a healthcare professional.

5. Constant fever

In rare instances, kidney cancer can cause a persistent fever. This fever is often accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, and night sweats.

If you notice that you have a constant low-grade fever that persists for an extended period, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Seeking medical attention

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional.

While these symptoms may not always indicate kidney cancer, they should never be ignored, as early detection plays a crucial role in successful treatment.

Your healthcare provider will likely perform a combination of physical examinations, laboratory tests, and imaging studies to evaluate the symptoms and determine the underlying cause.

This could involve blood tests, urine tests, ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs, among other diagnostic tools. Based on the results, further specialized tests may be recommended, such as a biopsy, to confirm a diagnosis.

Reducing the risk

While the exact cause of kidney cancer remains unclear, there are certain risk factors that have been identified. These include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, family history of kidney cancer, and certain genetic conditions.

Although not all cases of kidney cancer can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:.

Quit smoking or avoid smoking altogether.
Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet.
Manage high blood pressure through lifestyle changes or medication.
Undergo regular check-ups and screenings if you have a family history of kidney cancer.

While these preventive measures cannot guarantee the prevention of kidney cancer, they can significantly reduce the risk and contribute to overall good health.

Conclusion

Kidney cancer is a serious condition that should never be overlooked. Being aware of the early signs and symptoms is vital for early diagnosis and improved treatment outcomes.

If you experience any persistent back pain, blood in the urine, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, abdominal mass or swelling, or a constant fever, make sure to consult a healthcare professional. Remember, prevention and early detection are key in combating kidney cancer.