Symptoms of bladder cancer vary from person to person and depend on the location of the cancer. Some people experience a burning sensation while urinating. Others may experience hesitancy in beginning to urinate. They may have an increased need to urinate even after their bladders are empty.
If you’re experiencing bladder cancer symptoms, you should see a doctor. This is important because the disease can spread to other parts of the body, causing pain. A doctor can also perform other tests to diagnose the disease. These tests can help determine if your bladder cancer is aggressive and if it will spread to other parts of your body. You may also be prescribed chemotherapy, which is a type of medication that kills cancer cells. Chemotherapy is most often given before surgery to remove your bladder. However, it can also be used after surgery, depending on the tumor stage.
The most common symptom of bladder cancer is blood in the urine. This occurs when the bladder cells start to produce abnormal cells that grow uncontrollably. These cells can then break off and spread through the body. They can also form tumors that interfere with the bladder’s natural emptying process. Some tumors will also invade the surrounding muscles and organs.
Another symptom is pain while urinating. This pain can be caused by the cancer spreading to the bone, the lungs or the liver. It can also be caused by an infection in the bladder.
You may also experience unexplained weight loss or a loss of appetite. You may also experience pain or pressure in your back or pelvis. If you have bladder cancer, your doctor may recommend a chemotherapy treatment that focuses on targeting cells that have genetic changes that make them become cancer cells. The drugs are usually given by a vein.
You may also notice that the color of your urine changes. This is called hematuria. You may notice that your urine appears rusty, bright red, or light pink. This may be a sign that you have bladder stones or a urinary tract infection. It’s also a good idea to get a urine test if you think you may have bladder cancer.
There are a number of treatments for bladder cancer. Most doctors offer chemotherapy before surgery, as well as after surgery. You may also need to undergo a procedure called radical cystectomy. If you decide to have surgery, your doctor will use the results of tests to stage the cancer. This will help the doctor plan the treatment for you. The results will also tell your doctor if the cancer will recur. It’s important to be prepared for treatment so you can get the best results.
Your doctor may also suggest that you attend a cancer support group. This is a helpful resource for you to learn more about bladder cancer. You can also talk with other people who have had bladder cancer. By forming a support group, you may find people who can help you cope with your diagnosis.
