
When it comes to detecting serious health conditions such as kidney cancer, paying attention to the signs that your body may be showing is essential. Kidney cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the kidneys, the organs responsible for filtering waste and excess fluid from the blood to form urine. Recognizing the symptoms of kidney cancer early on can lead to a better prognosis and more effective treatment. In this article, we will discuss some symptoms that the body may exhibit, which could indicate the presence of kidney cancer.
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Kidney cancer is often asymptomatic in the early stages. But as it progresses, noticeable symptoms appear, said Dr. Raj Nagarkar, Managing Director and Head of Surgical Oncology, HCG Humanity Cancer Centre, Nashik. The number of people suffering from kidney cancer is increasing day by day. Kidney cancer, or renal cell carcinoma, mainly arises from the abnormal growth of cells in the kidney. It forms tumors.
Some Symptoms to Watch Out For:
- Blood in the Urine: One of the most common and telltale signs of kidney cancer is hematuria, which is the presence of blood in the urine. This may cause the urine to appear pink, red, or dark brown. It is important to note that blood in the urine can also be a symptom of other conditions, but it should always be investigated by a healthcare professional.
- Persistent Pain in the Side or Lower Back: Another symptom of kidney cancer is persistent pain in the side or lower back that does not go away with time or conventional pain relief methods. This pain may feel like a dull ache or sharp discomfort and may be accompanied by swelling in the abdomen.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss is often a red flag for various types of cancer, including kidney cancer. If you are losing weight without making any changes to your diet or exercise routine, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying health issues.
- Fatigue and Weakness: Kidney cancer can cause a sense of persistent fatigue and weakness, even after getting an adequate amount of rest. This could be due to the body's increased energy expenditure as it tries to combat the cancer cells.
- Fever and Night Sweats: Some individuals with kidney cancer may experience fever and night sweats, particularly as the cancer progresses. These symptoms are the body's way of trying to fight off the disease but can also indicate a more serious underlying health issue.
- Swelling in the Legs and Ankles: Kidney cancer can lead to excess fluid retention in the body, resulting in swelling in the legs and ankles. This swelling may be more noticeable in the evening or after prolonged periods of standing or sitting.
- High Blood Pressure: In some cases, kidney cancer can cause an increase in blood pressure levels. If you have unexplained high blood pressure, especially if you have no prior history of hypertension, it is essential to get evaluated by a healthcare professional.
How to defend?
1:While some risk factors, such as genetics, are beyond control, you can reduce your risk through a number of lifestyle changes.
2:Maintain a healthy weight; Obesity is a risk factor for many diseases. A balanced diet and regular exercise can help you lose weight.
3:Avoid smoking: Tobacco use significantly increases your risk of kidney cancer. Quitting smoking can protect you from many diseases.
4:Limit alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption is harmful to kidney health.
5:Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports kidney function and overall health.
6:Monitor your blood pressure: Uncontrolled high blood pressure can affect kidney health. This can increase your risk of cancer.
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Early recognition of kidney cancer symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and proper treatment. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and testing. Remember that early detection can significantly improve the prognosis and outcome of kidney cancer. Be vigilant and listen to your body's signals to ensure optimal health and well-being.