Bladder cancer often whispers its presence rather than shouts. For most people, the first sign is blood in the urine—frequently painless but unmistakable. Sometimes, these blood traces are so minimal they’re only visible under a microscope, yet they’re still significant.
Other symptoms to watch for:
- Frequent and Urgent Bathroom Visits: Particularly at night, a heightened need to urinate could point to more than an overactive bladder or UTI—especially if it comes with blood in the urine.
- Pain or Discomfort During Urination: A burning sensation or difficulty in fully emptying the bladder might signal more than a routine infection.
- Urinary Hesitancy or Weak Stream: A blocked or weakened flow can be a sign of a tumor affecting bladder function.
- Unexplained Side or Back Pain: Persistent pain, especially on one side, may indicate a tumor that has grown or started spreading.
- Unintended Weight Loss: Losing more than 15 pounds in three months without trying is a notable red flag for advanced cancer.
- Unusual Fatigue or Weakness: Persistent tiredness, beyond normal levels, is another possible sign of advanced disease.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you spot pink, red, or dark-colored urine, it’s time to seek advice. Yes, it’s natural to feel anxious, but early detection can make all the difference. While conditions like UTIs or kidney stones can also cause bleeding, catching bladder cancer early improves treatment options and outcomes. In fact, when diagnosed early, the five-year survival rate is a remarkable 96%, offering real hope and reassurance.
Prioritize your bladder health—our dedicated urologists at the Institute of Urology are here to help. For more information, reach out at (02) 8711 4141, local 538.
References:
- National Cancer Institute https://www.cancer.gov/types/bladder/symptoms
- American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/bladder-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/survival-rates.html
