Kidney cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which is why it can be challenging to detect. However, as the disease progresses, certain warning signs may appear. Recognizing these early warning signs can help you seek medical attention sooner and improve your chances of successful treatment.
Below are 7 early warning signs that cancer may be growing inside your kidneys:
1. Blood in the Urine (Hematuria)
- What It Looks Like : The urine may appear pink, red, or cola-colored due to the presence of blood. In some cases, the blood may only be detectable under a microscope.
- Why It Happens : Kidney tumors can cause bleeding into the urinary tract.
- When to Worry : Even if the bleeding comes and goes, it should not be ignored, as it could indicate kidney cancer or other serious conditions like infections or kidney stones.
2. Persistent Pain in the Side or Lower Back
- What It Feels Like : A dull, persistent ache or sharp pain on one side of your lower back, below the ribs, where the kidneys are located.
- Why It Happens : A growing tumor can press against nearby tissues, nerves, or organs, causing discomfort or pain.
- When to Worry : If the pain doesn’t go away or worsens over time, consult a doctor, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms.
3. A Lump or Mass in the Abdomen
- What It Feels Like : A noticeable lump or swelling in the side or abdomen.
- Why It Happens : As the tumor grows, it may become large enough to feel through the skin.
- When to Worry : While not all lumps are cancerous, any new or unusual mass should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
4. Unexplained Weight Loss
- What It Looks Like : Losing weight without trying, even though your diet and activity levels haven’t changed.
- Why It Happens : Cancer can alter metabolism and cause the body to break down muscle and fat tissue.
- When to Worry : Significant or rapid weight loss (e.g., 10 pounds or more in a short period) without explanation is a red flag for many cancers, including kidney cancer.
5. Fatigue and Weakness
- What It Feels Like : Persistent tiredness or weakness that doesn’t improve with rest.
- Why It Happens : Cancer can cause anemia (low red blood cell count), which leads to fatigue. Additionally, the body’s immune response to cancer can drain energy.
- When to Worry : If fatigue is severe, constant, and interferes with daily activities, it could signal an underlying issue.
6. Fever Without an Infection
- What It Feels Like : A recurring fever that isn’t caused by a cold, flu, or other infection.
- Why It Happens : Some cancers, including kidney cancer, can trigger an inflammatory response in the body, leading to unexplained fevers.
- When to Worry : If the fever persists for weeks or occurs intermittently without a clear cause, see a doctor.
7. Swelling in the Legs or Ankles (Edema)
- What It Looks Like : Swelling or puffiness in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes.
- Why It Happens : A kidney tumor can block blood flow or disrupt the kidneys’ ability to filter waste and excess fluid, leading to fluid retention.
- When to Worry : Sudden or worsening swelling, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, should be evaluated promptly.
Conclusion
While these symptoms don’t always mean kidney cancer, they should never be ignored. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so it’s important to listen to your body and seek medical advice if something feels off. Regular check-ups and awareness of your risk factors can also help catch kidney cancer in its early stages.