Q. What are the kidney cancer symptoms?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma, can present with a variety of symptoms, although some cases may be asymptomatic and discovered incidentally during routine medical exams or imaging studies. Common symptoms of kidney cancer include:
Blood in Urine (Hematuria): One of the most common symptoms is the presence of blood in the urine. The urine might appear pink, red, or cola-colored due to the presence of blood.
Persistent Pain: Pain or discomfort might be felt in the back, side, or abdomen. This pain can vary in intensity and might not go away even with medication.
Lump in the Abdomen: A mass or lump might be felt in the abdomen or side, often detected during a routine physical examination.
Unexplained Weight Loss: Individuals with kidney cancer might experience unexplained weight loss and a loss of appetite.
Fatigue: Ongoing fatigue and a general feeling of tiredness, even without physical exertion, could be a symptom.
Fever: A persistent fever that is not caused by an infection or other apparent reason might be associated with kidney cancer.
Anemia: Anemia, characterized by a low red blood cell count, might develop, leading to weakness and fatigue.
Swelling: Swelling in the legs and ankles can occur if the cancer affects the veins that drain blood from the kidneys.
It's important to note that these symptoms can be indicative of various other conditions as well, and the presence of any of these symptoms doesn't necessarily mean a person has kidney cancer. If someone experiences these symptoms, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate medical guidance. Additionally, kidney cancer might be asymptomatic in its early stages, underscoring the importance of regular medical check-ups and screenings, especially for individuals with a family history of kidney cancer or other risk factors.