Bladder cancer occurs when a growth of abnormal tissue develops into a tumor within the lining of the bladder. In some cases, the cancerous cells may even spread further into the surrounding muscles and organs. Recognizing the signs of bladder cancer can be easier than noticing the emergence of other forms of cancer, which often remain asymptomatic until a later stage in the disease. The earliest warning signs of bladder cancer typically include differences in bladder habits and blood in the urine.
Blood in the Urine and Changing Habits:
Blood in the urine, otherwise known as hematuria in medical circles, is usually painless, but it can lead to patients noticing the presence of streaks of blood or discoloration in their urine when they visit the bathroom. Generally, the blood isn't always noticeable, and many patients find that the symptom fluctuates, meaning that they don't get any signs of blood for a number of days, weeks, or even months.
Other, less common symptoms of bladder cancer include a sudden urge to urinate, a need to urinate more frequently, or feelings of burning while passing urine. Similarly, if the cancer is allowed to reach a more advanced stage, the signs of bladder cancer may begin to include unintentional weight loss, and pelvic pain.
Seek Out Medical Advice:
If you are experiencing any of the signs of bladder cancer, even if they appear intermittently, it's important so speak to your doctor as quickly as possible. Symptoms coming and going is common with bladder cancer, so don't be afraid to visit your GP, even if you haven't noticed blood in your urine or other symptoms for some time. Remember also that having the symptoms mentioned above doesn't guarantee that you have bladder cancer. In fact, there a number of other, more common possible diagnoses, such as urethritis, kidney stones, kidney infections, or a urinary tract infection.
What to Expect from Your GP:
If you visit your GP to consult about the signs of bladder cancer, you may be asked about your family history, symptoms, and if you have been exposed to any risk factors that may make you more predisposed to bladder cancer, such as smoking. In many cases, the doctor will request a urine sample which will be tested in a laboratory for traces of bacteria, blood, or other abnormal cells. Similarly, your doctor may also ask to carry out a physical examination of your genitals and rectum, as bladder cancer can sometimes cause a noticeable lump to appear.
Once diagnosed, your bladder cancer will be classified according to how much it has spread. For instance, if the cancerous cells are still contained within the lining of the bladder, doctors will describe the issue as non-invasive bladder cancer. However, when the cancerous cells begin to spread outside of the lining, this will be described as metastatic or locally advanced cancer of the bladder.
The earlier you speak to your doctor about the signs of cancer you may have experienced, the better your chances of having a successful treatment.