Each year, nearly 40,000 men in the United States are diagnosed with bladder cancer, reports the National Cancer Institute. This form of cancer occurs when abnormal cells begin to grow along the wall of the bladder. The symptoms of bladder cancer are similar for both men and women, but men are two to three times more likely than women to develop this form of cancer. Men who develop any bladder cancer symptoms should seek further evaluation and care from a medical professional.
Blood in the Urine
Men who develop bladder cancer may notice the appearance of blood in their urine, a symptom referred to as hematuria. Urine can appear unusually cloudy or may develop a dark amber, brown or red color due to the presence of blood. In certain cases, only a doctor may be able to detect blood within the urine during a microscopic examination of this bodily fluid, explains the Mayo Clinic. Men who develop blood within the urine should be seen by a physician as soon as possible, as this symptom can also be the result of a number of other medical conditions.
Frequent or Painful Urination
Cancerous cells within the bladder can irritate and inflame this organ. When this occurs, men can experience a frequent, urgent need to urinate. This may also occur in conjunction with pain or burning during urination, according to Merck.com. In certain cases, men with bladder cancer may also develop a urinary tract infection which can exacerbate these symptoms.
Back or Abdominal Pain
An inflamed or irritated bladder caused by cancerous cell growth can lead to symptoms of stomach pain. Men with bladder cancer can experience a constant, aching pain within the lower abdomen that may radiate into the lower back. Sharp or severe lower back pain may be indicative of advanced bladder cancer or a bladder infection that has spread to the kidneys, and requires prompt medical attention.
