Renal cell carcinoma is a type of kidney cancer that starts in the lining of the small tubes in the kidney. It is the most common type of kidney cancer in adults and often does not cause any symptoms in its early stages. However, as the cancer progresses, certain symptoms may start to appear. It is important to be aware of these symptoms so that the cancer can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.
In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of renal cell carcinoma in detail and provide information on when to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
1. Blood in the Urine
One of the most common symptoms of renal cell carcinoma is the presence of blood in the urine, also known as hematuria. The blood may make the urine appear pink, red, or cola-colored. In some cases, the blood may not be visible to the naked eye and can only be detected through a urine test. If you notice blood in your urine, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to determine the cause.
It is important to note that blood in the urine can also be a sign of other kidney conditions, such as kidney stones or an infection. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any serious underlying causes.
2. Back or Side Pain
Many people with renal cell carcinoma experience pain in the back or side of the affected kidney. This pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing sensation and may come and go over time. The pain is caused by the tumor pressing on nearby nerves or organs, and it is often not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication.
If you are experiencing persistent back or side pain that does not go away, it is important to speak with a doctor. While back pain is a common ailment, it can also be a symptom of kidney cancer or other serious conditions that require medical attention.
3. Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss is a symptom that can occur in people with advanced renal cell carcinoma. The cancer can interfere with the body’s ability to process nutrients, leading to a loss of appetite and unintended weight loss. If you have lost a significant amount of weight without trying, it is important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause.
It is important to note that unexplained weight loss can also be a symptom of many other health issues, such as thyroid disorders or gastrointestinal conditions. However, if you are experiencing this symptom along with other signs of renal cell carcinoma, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
4. Fatigue and Weakness
Fatigue and weakness are common symptoms experienced by people with renal cell carcinoma. The cancer can cause the body to produce excessive amounts of certain hormones, which can lead to the development of anemia and fatigue. Additionally, the cancer can also interfere with the normal functioning of the kidneys, leading to a buildup of toxins in the body that can cause weakness and malaise.
If you have been feeling unusually tired or weak, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any serious underlying causes. While fatigue is a common complaint, it can also be a symptom of many medical conditions, including kidney cancer.
5. Swelling in the Legs and Ankles
Swelling in the legs and ankles, also known as edema, can be a symptom of advanced renal cell carcinoma. The cancer can obstruct the flow of blood and lymphatic fluid, leading to the accumulation of fluid in the lower extremities. If you notice swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet that does not go away, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the cause.
It is important to note that edema can also be a sign of other conditions, such as heart failure or liver disease. However, if you have other symptoms of renal cell carcinoma along with swelling in your legs, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
6. High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can be a symptom of renal cell carcinoma. The cancer can produce excessive amounts of certain hormones that can cause the blood vessels to constrict, leading to an increase in blood pressure. If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or are experiencing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or nosebleeds, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any serious underlying causes, including kidney cancer.
It is important to note that high blood pressure can also be a sign of other health conditions or lifestyle factors, such as obesity or a high-sodium diet. However, if you have other symptoms of renal cell carcinoma along with high blood pressure, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
7. Fever and Night Sweats
Some people with renal cell carcinoma may experience fever and night sweats, particularly if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. The fever and sweating may occur regularly and without any apparent cause. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
It is important to note that fever and night sweats can also be symptoms of other health issues, such as infections or autoimmune disorders. However, if you have other symptoms of renal cell carcinoma along with fever and night sweats, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
8. A Lump or Mass in the Abdomen
If the cancer has grown large enough, it can sometimes be felt as a lump or mass in the abdomen. The lump may be hard or tender to the touch and may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as abdominal pain or a feeling of fullness. If you notice a lump in your abdomen, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
It is important to note that lumps in the abdomen can also be signs of many other conditions, such as hernias or benign tumors. However, if you have other symptoms of renal cell carcinoma along with a lump in your abdomen, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
9. Loss of Appetite
Loss of appetite is a symptom that can occur in people with advanced renal cell carcinoma. The cancer can interfere with the body’s ability to process nutrients and can also produce excessive amounts of certain hormones that can suppress the appetite. If you have lost your appetite and are experiencing unintended weight loss, it is important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause.
It is important to note that loss of appetite can also be a symptom of many other health issues, such as depression or gastrointestinal conditions. However, if you are experiencing this symptom along with other signs of renal cell carcinoma, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
10. Generalized Itching or Skin Rash
Some people with renal cell carcinoma may experience generalized itching or a skin rash, particularly if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. The itching and rash may occur without any apparent cause and may not respond to over-the-counter treatments. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
It is important to note that itching and skin rashes can also be symptoms of other health issues, such as allergies or skin conditions. However, if you have other symptoms of renal cell carcinoma along with itching and a rash, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
