Featured Image Credit: Getty Images/urbazon
Topics: Health, World News, Cancer
Liv Bridge
The most commonly overlooked symptoms of kidney cancer have been revealed as unfortunately, most cases are found too late.
Kidney cancer is one of the top 10 most common cancers in the US, claiming the lives of thousands every year.
The prevailing problem with it is that many patients don't realize they have it until it's too late, earning it the nickname as the 'silent disease'.
According to Kidney Cancer UK, a whopping four in five kidney cancer cases are discovered entirely by accident.
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The charity states that more than half (55 percent) receive the diagnosis after a scan or a test for an unrelated condition.
Now, the charity is raising awareness of the 'easy to ignore' common symptoms.
Hazel Jackson, healthcare professional lead nurse at Kidney Cancer UK, told The Sun: "Kidney cancer is often called a ‘silent disease’ because many people don’t notice anything wrong until it’s more advanced. That’s why spotting the early warning signs is so important.
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"Symptoms are often vague – from back pain and chronic fatigue to recurring urine infections – meaning the warning signs are easy to miss.”
She says blood in your urine is one tell-tale sign and actually stands as 'the biggest red flag'.
“It can show in different ways – from obvious deep red or brown urine to a faint pink tinge, tiny specks, or even blood only at the end of urination," she added.
It might only occur just the once, and come with no pain, which Hazel says is how people shrug it off.
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"Some people assume a small drop isn’t worth worrying about, but in essence, any blood in your urine is abnormal and should be checked immediately. It could be caused by something simple like a kidney stone or infection, but it can also be an early sign of kidney cancer. Never dismiss it.”
A dull ache or pain in your back or side, especially if it lingers, could be another sign, as can rapid weight loss.
Hazel adds that a recurring urinary tract infection (UTI) could be another sign.
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"Though most UTIs are harmless, repeated infections can mask serious kidney problems, including, in rare cases, cancer," she told the outlet.
Other lesser-known signs of kidney cancer include a loss of appetite, a high temperature and sweating a lot, including at night.
Hazel continued: “Symptoms of kidney cancer can be vague and don’t always appear together. That’s why it’s vital to trust your instincts. Early diagnosis saves lives. Treatment is far more effective when cancer is caught early.
“Don’t dismiss changes in your body – acting quickly could make all the difference. As a nurse specialising in kidney cancer care, my advice is simple: if in doubt, get it checked.
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“You know your body best, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry.”