The most common type of kidney cancer is renal cell carcinoma. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, it strikes men more often than women, often in the sixth or seventh decade of life. The cancer usually manifests in one kidney but can spread to other parts of the body, a condition known as metastasis. As with all cancers, early detection is important. Many patients with kidney cancer have no discernible symptoms until the cancer is advanced. Schedule an examination by your family physician if you have any of these warning signs; he may refer you to a nephrologist or an oncologist.
Pain
The person with kidney cancer may notice pain in his abdomen, side or back. This pain is often just below the ribs and stays fairly constant. It is often described as aching or dull. Frequently, the development of this symptom precipitates a visit to the doctor for diagnosis.
Blood in Urine
The color of the urine may change due to the presence of blood. It may appear to have small red specks or clots in it. Alternatively, the urine may look pink, red, brown or yellowish brown.
Abdominal Swelling
The abdomen may appear swollen and the patient's pants may feel tight around the waist, despite him not gaining any weight. The swelling may become uncomfortable.
Weight Loss
Weight loss may be experienced during the progression of kidney cancer. A man who weighed 200 pounds may lose ten pounds or more. "Medical-Surgical Nursing" states that nutritional deficiencies may become apparent. The person with kidney cancer may notice that he gets cold easier than others around him and appear pale. He may develop constipation.
Fever
The patient with kidney cancer may experience a mild fever. This fever usually comes and goes and is either unrecognized or felt to be from another source.
Fatigue
Kidney cancer can cause fatigue, which can range from mild to severe. The person may notice that he is exhausted at the end of the day, or unable to muster the energy to perform his usual tasks. He may gradually cease recreational activities due to this fatigue.
Eye Problems
Some patients with kidney cancer complain of difficulty seeing properly. Often, this symptom is not attributed to its true source until other warning signs lead to a kidney cancer diagnosis.
Female-Specific Sign
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, a woman with kidney cancer may experience unwanted hair growth in various body regions.
Male-Specific Signs
A man with kidney cancer may experience breast enlargement or darkening of his nipples. He may also notice a swollen vein in his testicle.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Kidney Cancer
- U.S. National Library of Medicine: Renal Cell Carcinoma
- "Medical-Surgical Nursing;" Donna Ignatavicius, M.S., R.N. and Linda Workman, Ph.D., R.N.; 2002
