What are the early symptoms of kidney cancer?
Nov 21, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Guang
Introduction
Renal cancer generally refers to renal cell carcinoma. Early symptoms may include hematuria (blood in the urine), flank pain, a mass in the flank or abdomen, weight loss, fatigue, and others. When the tumor invades the renal pelvis or calyces, causing mucosal damage, patients may notice visible blood in the urine, known as gross hematuria. Sometimes the hematuria is intermittent and may stop on its own.
Renal cancer generally refers to renal cell carcinoma. Early symptoms may include hematuria (blood in the urine), flank pain, a mass in the flank or abdomen, weight loss, fatigue, and others. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Hematuria: When the tumor invades the renal pelvis or calyx, it causes mucosal damage. Patients may notice visible blood in the urine, known as gross hematuria. Sometimes the hematuria is intermittent and may stop on its own.
2. Flank Pain: As the tumor grows, it may compress surrounding nerves and tissues, causing flank pain. This pain is typically dull, localized, and may worsen with physical activity.
3. Flank or Abdominal Mass: When the tumor reaches a certain size, it may be palpable on physical examination. Patients may feel a mass in the flank or upper abdomen. The mass is usually painless, smooth-surfaced, and non-tender.
4. Weight Loss: The tumor consumes significant energy and affects the patient's appetite and digestive function, leading to weight loss.
5. Fatigue: The tumor's impact on normal bodily functions and its high energy consumption can lead to fatigue, weakness, and general malaise.
If any of these symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and follow the doctor's instructions for treatment.
