Bladder cancer is a relatively common type of cancer that develops in the lining of the bladder. According to the American Cancer Society, the estimated number of new cases of bladder cancer in the United States for 2021 is 83,730.
Although bladder cancer can be easily treated when diagnosed early, it can also be deadly if left untreated. Therefore, being able to identify the early warning signs of bladder cancer is crucial to increase the chances of successful treatment and survival.
In this article, we will discuss the early warning signs of bladder cancer that you should watch out for.
What is Bladder Cancer?
The bladder is a hollow organ located in the lower abdomen that stores urine before it is excreted from the body. Bladder cancer develops when the cells in the lining of the bladder start growing uncontrollably and form a tumor.
There are several types of bladder cancer, including:.
- Transitional cell carcinoma: This is the most common type of bladder cancer that starts in the cells that line the inside of the bladder.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: This type of bladder cancer develops in the thin, flat cells that line the bladder after long-term irritation and inflammation.
- Adenocarcinoma: This is a rare type of bladder cancer that develops in the mucus-secreting cells in the bladder lining.
What are the Early Warning Signs of Bladder Cancer?
Bladder cancer does not always cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, some people may experience certain warning signs that could indicate the presence of bladder cancer. Here are the most common early warning signs of bladder cancer:.
Blood in Urine (Hematuria)
The most common early sign of bladder cancer is hematuria, or blood in the urine. The blood may appear pink, red, or rusty brown, and it may come and go.
Hematuria can be painless, and it may be caused by other conditions such as a urinary tract infection or kidney stones. Nevertheless, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider if you notice blood in the urine, as it can also be a sign of bladder cancer.
Pain or Burning Sensation During Urination
Another early warning sign of bladder cancer is pain or burning sensation while urinating. This symptom may be accompanied by a frequent urge to urinate, but little urine comes out each time.
It is essential to seek medical attention to rule out any underlying medical conditions, including bladder cancer.
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Bladder Cancer: Spotting the Symptoms
Lower Back Pain
Bladder cancer can also cause a dull ache or pressure in the lower back area. This symptom is often persistent and does not go away with over-the-counter pain medications.
The persisting pain or discomfort in the lower back, especially if it is accompanied by any other symptoms, is an early warning sign of bladder cancer and should be brought to a doctor’s attention.
Incontinence
Incontinence, or the loss of bladder control, is another early symptom of bladder cancer. Cancerous tumors in the bladder can cause incontinence by interfering with the normal control of the bladder.
This symptom is more common in advanced stages of bladder cancer but can also occur in the early stages and should not be overlooked.
Frequent Urinary Tract Infections
People who experience recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) may be at higher risk of developing bladder cancer. Chronic UTIs can irritate the lining of the bladder and increase the risk of abnormal cell growth, which can eventually lead to cancer.
If you experience frequent UTIs, you should speak with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions, including bladder cancer.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience any of these early warning signs of bladder cancer, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.
While these symptoms may not necessarily indicate bladder cancer, they should never be ignored, and prompt medical attention can enable swift diagnosis and treatment of any underlying conditions.
Conclusion
Bladder cancer is a common type of cancer that develops in the lining of the bladder. Identifying the early warning signs of bladder cancer and seeking prompt medical attention are crucial to increase the chances of successful treatment and survival.
The early warning signs of bladder cancer include blood in urine, pain or burning sensation during urination, lower back pain, incontinence, and frequent urinary tract infections. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should contact your healthcare provider without delay.
