Signs that You Need Bladder Cancer Screening
Posted on: 27 June 2019
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Early screening of bladder cancer can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment before it spreads to other parts of the body. With that in mind, it is important to keep your eyes peeled for these telltale signs that could indicate early stages of bladder cancer. It is, however, worth noting that these symptoms could also indicate less serious complications other than cancer. Therefore, you should always consult your doctor first before jumping into any conclusions.
Blood in Your Urine
Bloody urine, or hematuria, is usually the first sign of bladder cancer and should be a definite cause of alarm. Blood can exist in urine in varying amounts; sometimes so much that it completely changes the colour of your urine to a pink hue, and sometimes so little that it's barely visible to the naked eye. The only sure way to determine if you have blood in your urine is through urinalysis, normally done in most general health check-ups.
Irritation During Urination
If you feel a painful burning sensation while urinating, then you should also consider getting screened for bladder cancer immediately. Since most people associate painful peeing with STDs, this symptom is often mistaken for less serious conditions and ignored until it's too late. To be on the safe side, have a cancer screening with your diagnosis whenever you experience any pain while peeing. This simple act could help detect early stages of bladder cancer and eventually save your life.
Changes in Bladder Habits
The urge to visit the bathroom now and then could be a red flag indicating possible cancer growth in your bladder. If you also have problems getting a proper stream of urine out or have the habit of waking up to go even if your bladder doesn't feel full, then it's high time to get screened for bladder cancer before it spreads to the kidneys and other vital organs.
Inability to Urinate
If your ability to pee is compromised, then the logical thing is to see the doctor for screening as soon as possible. The failure to urinate could signal the advanced stages of bladder cancer, meaning the time for bladder cancer treatment is quickly running out.
Remember, these signs could indicate a plethora of other health issues that are in no way related to cancer, but it still doesn't hurt to have the doctor check you out. After all, it's better to be safe than sorry.