Worried about kidney cancer? Be aware of key symptoms such as blood in urine, unexplained weight loss, persistent back pain, and fatigue, and know when to seek medical advice.
Okay, so you’re a bit worried, maybe? I get it. Finding out about potential health issues can be scary, especially when it comes to something like kidney cancer. So, how do you know what to look for?
We’ll take a closer look at some key things to watch out for regarding kidney cancer, and don’t worry, we’ll keep it straightforward.
- Symptoms of Kidney Cancer
- 1. Blood in the Urine
- 2. Sudden Weight Loss and Fatigue
- 3. Persistent Pain in the Flank or Back
- 4. Low Red Blood Cell Count Than Expected
- 5. Feeling Pain in the Side or Lower Back
- Diagnosing Kidney Cancer
- Key takeaways
- FAQ, Myth & Facts
Symptoms of Kidney Cancer
When we talk about kidney cancer, we’re often talking about renal cell carcinoma, which accounts for roughly 85% of kidney cancers. It starts in the lining of tiny tubes in the kidney.
In many instances, early kidney cancer might not cause noticeable issues. But, there are signs, and recognizing them is key. These indicators could be linked to kidney cancer:
1. Blood in the Urine
Seeing blood in your urine, even just a little, should be taken seriously. It can indicate a problem with your kidneys. It’s a very important thing to note. That said, there can be many reasons for blood in the urine, but it’s something that needs to be checked out.
Often, the presence of blood in the early stages of kidney cancer is not always visible, and in some cases, only a small amount might be present. In other instances, more substantial blood may appear, turning the urine dark pink or red. Sometimes, blood might not always be present; rather, it might come and go, so even if it disappears, you’d want to make sure you get that checked out.
2. Sudden Weight Loss and Fatigue
Your kidneys are super important for regulating things like electrolytes and fluids in your body, and if there’s something wrong with your kidneys, that can affect how your body handles those things, which can lead to feeling tired, or experiencing sudden weight loss. If you’re experiencing that, it’s important to see a doctor to figure out what’s going on.
However, it is important to note that these symptoms may not be exclusively due to kidney cancer; thus, consultation with a doctor is vital to ascertain the actual cause. A more complete and holistic approach to one’s health that covers all aspects of well-being should also include regular moderate physical exercise, which improves energy levels, reduces fatigue and helps maintain a healthy body weight.
3. Persistent Pain in the Flank or Back
One of the symptoms of kidney cancer is persistent discomfort in the back or side. If you’re dealing with constant pain in those areas, seeing a doctor is a must to figure out the cause of that pain.
4. Low Red Blood Cell Count Than Expected
Kidney cancer can lead to anemia, which is a deficiency in red blood cells. It can also lead to an increase in calcium or electrolyte levels in the body. But these symptoms aren’t exclusive to kidney cancer. They can be related to other conditions. So, if you notice them, further investigation and assessment by a doctor are crucial.
5. Feeling Pain in the Side or Lower Back
If you’re experiencing pain on your sides or lower back it could be related to issues with your kidneys. With kidney cancer, the growth of the kidney may cause it to press on surrounding tissues, which may cause pain.
Diagnosing Kidney Cancer
After recognizing symptoms suggestive of kidney cancer, further evaluation involves imaging tests like a CT scan or MRI to visualize the kidneys and assess for any abnormalities. During these scans, medical professionals look for tumors, masses, or any other unusual findings.
Ultimately, if kidney cancer is suspected, early detection is crucial. The sooner it’s caught, the more effective treatment can be and the better the outcome. That may include surgical procedures to remove the tumor.
Pay attention to your body and any symptoms that might show up, so you can stay safe.
Key takeaways
- Blood in urine (even a little) warrants a checkup.
- Unexplained weight loss or persistent fatigue should be investigated.
- Don’t ignore persistent side or back pain.
FAQ, Myth & Facts
Is blood in the urine always a sign of kidney cancer?
Not always. While it is a common symptom, blood in the urine can also be caused by infections, kidney stones, or other conditions. Still, it’s essential to see a doctor to determine the cause.
Can kidney cancer be detected early?
Yes, through imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs, kidney cancer can often be detected in its early stages, when treatment is often more effective.
Is kidney cancer hereditary?
In some rare cases, kidney cancer can be linked to inherited genetic mutations, increasing the risk for individuals with a family history of the disease. However, most cases of kidney cancer are not hereditary.
Is there a link between lifestyle factors and kidney cancer?
Smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and exposure to certain chemicals have been associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk.
Is kidney cancer always fatal?
No, kidney cancer is not always fatal. If detected and treated early, the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival are greatly improved.
Testimonials
I’d been feeling exhausted all the time, but I just brushed it off as stress. Then, I started getting this nagging pain in my side that wouldn’t go away. I finally went to the doctor, and it turned out to be kidney cancer. I was so scared, but the doctors were great, and I had surgery to remove the tumor. It’s been a tough journey, but I’m so grateful that I caught it when I did. Now, I make sure to get regular checkups and listen to my body.
Finding blood in my urine was the scariest thing I’ve ever experienced. I immediately thought the worst, and my anxiety went through the roof. Thankfully, my doctor took it seriously and ordered some tests. It turned out I had a small kidney tumor. I underwent treatment, and I’m now in remission. This experience taught me the importance of early detection and taking care of my health.
For months, I had this persistent back pain that I just couldn’t shake off. I thought it was just a muscle strain from work. Eventually, the pain became so intense that I couldn’t sleep. After several tests, my doctor diagnosed me with kidney cancer. The news was devastating, but I was determined to fight it. I went through surgery and radiation therapy, and now I’m cancer-free. I’m so thankful for the support of my family and friends, and for the medical professionals who helped me beat this disease.
So, yeah, that’s a lot to take in, right? I remember when my uncle was going through some health scares (thankfully, nothing serious!), and it really made me realize how important it is to pay attention to what your body is telling you. We’ve noticed that many don’t know that high blood pressure, for example, can actually cause kidney problems in the long run, or that long-term use of certain painkillers can also damage your kidneys. It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about these things, too.
