Bladder cancer is a serious diagnosis. Bladder cancer is split into three common types: urothelial, squamous cell and adenocarcinoma. Each cancer originates from different types of cells. Any type of bladder cancer needs assessment and treatment to prevent the disease from spreading and invading the surrounding tissues and organs. If symptoms are present, a visit to a family doctor is recommended for evaluation---she may choose to then send the patient to a urologist or oncologist. Learning the warning signs of bladder cancer symptoms can help save your life.
Blood in Urine
One of the very first signs that may signify bladder cancer is the visibility of blood in the urine. This can be as little as a trace of blood while urinating. In severe cases, blood can be highly visible in the toilet and even come out in small clots. The symptom itself may not painful but it is harmful. It could signify internal bleeding. Any loss of blood in the urine can also lead to anemia and may require a possible blood transfusion. If extreme weakness, headaches or syncope (passing out) occurs, this could be a sign of extensive blood loss, and medical treatment should be sought immediately.
Painful Urination
Another warning sign of bladder cancer is painful urination. This could be occurring for several reasons. It could be caused from any slight change in the bladder or urethra. Cancer cells within the tissues could also cause pain and discomfort. Typically, when there is noticeable or intense pain, it signifies the presence of a tumor or mass in the bladder or urethra area. The pain may get worse during or just after urination. It can often be recognized as a sharp, burning pain or tearing pain.
Frequent Urination
Frequent urination is also a warning sign that bladder cancer is present. This could be because of the increased pressure a tumor or mass is placing on the bladder. Frequent urination means having to go more than five times per day. It could also mean the body feels like it needs to urinate but is unable to do so; this is especially common in latter stages of bladder cancer, when a tumor has grown large enough to affect urination.
Lower Abdominal Pain
Another warning sign of bladder cancer could be lower abdominal pain. This could be from the presence of a tumor that is pressing on surrounding organs or the bladder. There may be intense pain when pressure is applied to the lower abdominal area. If the area is hot to the touch, this could signify an infection and is considered a medical emergency.
Lumps or Swollen Lumps
Oftentimes, lumps or bumps may be present with or without the above symptoms. A lump or large raised surface in the abdominal or pelvic area could signify a tumor growing in or around the bladder. Small grape-size swollen lumps in the groin or the neck could also signify the presence of cancer in the body. This could mean that the bladder cancer has spread into the blood stream and invaded the nearby lymph nodes.
