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Kidney cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease that can have serious consequences if it is not caught and treated early. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of kidney cancer so that you can seek medical attention right away if you experience any of them. While there is no surefire way to prevent kidney cancer, knowing the signs and symptoms can help you take the necessary steps to get a diagnosis and start treatment as soon as possible. Keep reading to learn about the 10 most common signs and symptoms of kidney cancer that you should know.
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Blood in the urine
Blood in the urine is a common sign of kidney cancer, often appearing as a pink or red-colored stain on toilet paper or underwear. While small amounts of blood in the urine are common and typically cause no problems, larger amounts can be a sign of kidney cancer or other health conditions, such as an infection, urinary tract infection, kidney stone, or a urinary tract obstruction. Blood in the urine is caused by kidney cancer when the cancer cells grow into the walls of the kidney and into the tubes that collect urine from the kidneys, blocking the flow of urine. This results in blood getting into the urine. Blood in the urine can occur with or without pain. Blood in the urine can also happen before kidney cancer is diagnosed. This is called proteinuria and can be a sign of a more serious condition, called lupus, which can also cause kidney cancer.
Pain in the side or lower back
If you experience pain in the side or lower back, both of which are common signs of kidney cancer, you should see your doctor as soon as possible. Kidney cancer pain typically occurs in one side of the body, and can sometimes feel like a muscle cramp or ache. Side pain that is not associated with an injury may be a sign of kidney cancer or other conditions, such as kidney stones or inflammation of the surrounding tissues and organs. Low back pain is another common symptom of kidney cancer.
A lump in the side or abdomen
A lump in the side or abdomen, which can sometimes feel like a swelling or mass, is a common sign of kidney cancer. The lump is typically found along the side of the abdomen just above the waistline. The size and shape of a kidney cancer lump can vary, and it is important to note any changes in its size and/or tenderness. Kidney cancer can also cause cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs, to develop on the kidneys. Cysts are not harmful, but can sometimes be confused for a lump.
Frequent nausea and vomiting
If you experience nausea and vomiting, especially after eating, this may be a sign of kidney cancer. When nephro-renal syndrome, a condition when the kidneys fail, occurs, nausea and vomiting are common symptoms. Kidney cancer can also cause nausea and vomiting as a result of the tumor pressing against the stomach.
Unintentional weight loss
If you have experienced an unintentional weight loss of 10 pounds or more, this may be a sign of kidney cancer, especially if you have otherwise been healthy. Weight loss is a common symptom of kidney cancer, but can also be associated with other conditions, such as an autoimmune disease, endocrine disorders, or nutritional deficiencies. If you have noticed a significant drop in weight, it is important to visit your doctor as soon as possible.
Extreme fatigue
If you feel extremely tired, fatigued, or lethargic, this may be a sign of kidney cancer. Fatigue is a common symptom of kidney cancer, as well as other diseases, such as anemia, inflammation, or malnutrition. It is important to note any changes in your health, including changes in your energy level, so that you can catch any potential health issues early.
High fever
A high fever associated with pain in the side that is a sign of kidney cancer. Kidney cancer can cause the surrounding tissues to become inflamed, often leading to a high fever. Fever can be caused by other conditions, such as infection, so it is important to visit your doctor if you experience a fever, regardless of whether or not you have a kidney cancer diagnosis.
Swelling in the feet and ankles
Swelling of the feet and ankles, especially if the swelling is sudden, is a common symptom of kidney cancer. The swelling is caused by fluid building up in the body, which can be a sign of kidney cancer or other diseases, such as infection or heart failure. If you experience any swelling, it is important to visit your doctor as soon as possible.
Difficulty urinating
If you have a hard time urinating or you feel like your bladder is never empty, this can be a sign of kidney cancer. It is important to note any changes in your urination, especially if they occur suddenly, so that you can get a diagnosis and start treatment as soon as possible.
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Conclusion
This article has explored 10 signs and symptoms of kidney cancer that you should know, including blood in the urine, pain in the side or lower back, a lump in the side or abdomen, frequent nausea and vomiting, extreme fatigue, a high fever, swelling in the feet and ankles, difficulty urinating, and unintended weight loss. Kidney cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease that can have serious consequences if it is not caught and treated early. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of kidney cancer so that you can seek medical attention right away if you experience any of them.
Reference:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352664
https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.cancer.org/cancer/kidney-cancer/about/what-is-kidney-cancer.html
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/kidney/index.htm
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kidney_cancer