Renal cancer, commonly referred to as kidney cancer, is a kind of cancer that starts in the kidney’s cells. Only approximately 2% of cancer cases are this form of cancer, making it a relatively rare disease. But successful treatment and better results depend on early detection.
This article will discuss the signs and symptoms of kidney cancer that you should watch for.
Symptoms to Watch For
The most common symptom of kidney cancer is blood in the urine, known as hematuria. This may appear as pink, red, or cola-colored urine. Blood in the urine can also indicate other conditions, such as a urinary tract infection, kidney stones, or bladder cancer. Still, it is essential to get it checked out by a healthcare professional if it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms.
Another symptom of kidney cancer is a lump or mass in the abdomen or flank area. This can be felt by the patient or detected during a physical exam. The lump may be painless or cause discomfort or pain. One should note that not all lumps or masses are cancerous, but a doctor must check them out to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Other potential signs and symptoms of kidney cancer include:
- Persistent pain in the side or lower back
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Fever
- High blood pressure
- Anemia
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
- Palpable mass in the abdomen
Other Risk Factors to Consider
It is important to note that other conditions can cause these symptoms, but if they persist or worsen, one must seek medical attention. Kidney cancer is often detected incidentally during medical imaging for another condition, such as an unrelated injury or illness, so attending routine check-ups and screenings is essential.
Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing kidney cancer, including age, gender, smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and family history. If you are at increased risk for kidney cancer, being vigilant and reporting any potential symptoms to your healthcare provider is important. In addition to regular check-ups and screenings, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of developing kidney cancer in addition to regular check-ups and screenings.
Treatment options for kidney cancer vary depending on the stage of the disease and other factors such as the patient’s age and overall health. Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy.
A relatively uncommon but potentially dangerous kind of cancer is kidney cancer. Early detection is essential for effective treatment and better results. You must visit a doctor immediately if you exhibit any warning signs and symptoms covered in this article. You can actively participate in your healthcare and possibly increase your chances of a successful diagnosis, treatment, and recovery by being aware of kidney cancer’s warning signs and symptoms.