The article in brief
This article details the early symptoms of bladder cancer and the importance of early diagnosis. The key points are:
- Le blood in urine is the main warning sign, visible or invisible
- From urinary problems such as difficulty or burning, can be early signs of a problem.
- Symptoms vary depending on the gender and may be confused with other problems
- A early diagnosis involves specific tests such as ECBU and cystoscopy
As a specialist urologist, I am regularly confronted with patients who are worried about early symptoms of bladder cancer. It is vital to recognise these early signs in order to promote rapid diagnosis and improve the chances of recovery. In this article, I'm going to share my expertise and guide you through the initial manifestations of this disease, explaining how to identify them and when to seek help.
Blood in the urine: the main warning sign
The most common symptom suggestive of bladder cancer is undoubtedly the presence of blood in the urine, known as haematuria. This sign should never be overlooked, even if it can sometimes go unnoticed.
Visible and invisible haematuria
Haematuria can manifest itself in two ways:
- Visible urine takes on a pink, red or brown hue
- Invisible blood is not detectable with the naked eye, but can be identified by urine tests
I have sometimes seen patients who have noticed coloured urine but have not paid any attention to it. I can't stress enough the importance of seeking prompt medical attention in such cases.
Intermittent bleeding
A particular feature of haematuria associated with bladder cancer is its intermittent nature. Episodes of bleeding may alternate with periods when urine appears normal. This intermittence should not reassure you: on the contrary, it is characteristic of certain bladder tumours.
Other possible causes
It is important to note that the presence of blood in the urine does not always mean cancer. Other conditions, such as urinary tract infections or kidney stones, may be the cause. On the other hand urology consultation is still essential for making an accurate diagnosis.
Urinary disorders and other less specific signs
Although less specific, certain urinary disorders can also be early signs of bladder cancer. These symptoms are often confused with other urological problems, which can delay diagnosis.
Urinary symptoms to watch out for
Here are the main urinary problems that should alert you:
- Difficulty urinating
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Unusual urinary incontinence
These symptoms may be confused with overactive bladder. However, if they persist or worsen, it is essential to seek medical advice.
Differences between men and women
The symptoms of bladder cancer can vary according to gender:
| Men | Women |
|---|---|
| Weak urine stream | Confusion with gynaecological problems |
| Difficulty urinating | Recurrent urinary tract infections |
| Feeling of poorly emptied bladder | Pelvic pain |
As a specialist, I have often found that these differences can lead to delays in diagnosis, particularly in women, where symptoms are sometimes wrongly attributed to gynaecological problems.
General signs and pain
At a more advanced stage, other symptoms may appear:
- Pelvic or lower back pain
- Unexplained fatigue
- Anemia
- Intermittent fever
- Loss of appetite or weight
These general signs are often delayed and may indicate a progression of the disease. That's why it's important not to wait for them to appear before seeking medical advice.
Diagnosis and additional tests
Faced with these symptoms, several tests may be necessary to establish a precise diagnosis and assess the extent of the disease if it is confirmed.
First-line examinations
When a patient presents with suggestive symptoms, I generally begin by prescribing :
- An ECBU (Urine Cytobacteriological Examination) to detect the presence of blood or abnormal cells
- A bladder ultrasound to visualise the bladder wall and detect any abnormalities
- Cystoscopy, a key examination enabling direct observation of the inside of the bladder
These examinations are essential to guide the diagnosis. Cystoscopy, although sometimes dreaded by patients, is painless and crucial for identifying suspicious lesions.
Confirmation of diagnosis
If an abnormality is detected, a biopsy is required to confirm the diagnosis and characterise the tumour. This examination is used to determine the type of cancer, its aggressiveness and its stage of development.
In some cases, a urodynamic testing may be carried out to assess bladder function, especially if urinary symptoms are at the forefront.
It is important to stress that the presence of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have cancer. On the other hand, their persistence or combination should prompt you to seek medical advice as soon as possible. Early detection is essential, particularly for people at risk aged between 50 and 74.
As an urologist, I can only encourage you to be alert to these signs and not to hesitate to seek medical advice if in doubt. Early detection of bladder cancer considerably improves patients' chances of recovery and quality of life.
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