Bladder cancer is a form of cancer that originates in the bladder cells and may spread to other organs eventually. A family history of bladder cancer might be one of the causes of this health condition. However, environmental factors like contaminated water and diseases like chronic urinary tract infections may also be risk factors. Early detection of bladder cancer signs may help patients receive prompt treatment and manage their symptoms better.

Blood in the urine
One of the earliest warning signs of bladder cancer is blood in the urine, or hematuria, which causes urine to appear red. Around 80 to 90% of those with bladder cancer experience this symptom. Sometimes, blood may not appear in the urine, but it might be detected when one gets a laboratory examination done.

The need to urinate frequently
Patients with bladder cancer may feel the need to urinate very frequently. This symptom might not always indicate bladder cancer since many other health conditions share this warning sign. But if one’s urination patterns undergo a noticeable change, one should consult a healthcare professional without delay.

Burning sensation when passing urine
Cancer cells developing in the bladder might come together to form tumors, which might trigger a burning sensation when passing urine.

Inability to pass urine or incomplete bladder evacuation
The tumors forming in the bladder because of cancer might cause a blockage in this area. As a result, patients with bladder cancer might either be unable to pass urine or might feel as though the bladder evacuation is incomplete. Even benign tumors in the bladder can cause this symptom; nevertheless, it’s best to get it tested.

Back pain
As bladder cancer cells begin spreading to other body parts, one might experience pain in these areas. A common symptom of bladder cancer is back pain, which happens when cancerous cells begin spreading to the back.

Pelvic pain
Pelvic pain might indicate that bladder cancer has started spreading to one’s pelvis. While pelvic pain might also be a sign of some other health issue, one shouldn’t ignore this symptom and should get a test done at the earliest.

Loss of appetite
Bladder cancer usually triggers acute loss of appetite, eventually triggering severe weakness. If other bladder cancer symptoms accompany appetite loss, it might indicate the condition. Bladder cancer treatments may worsen this symptom.

Swelling of the feet
If the cancer cells developing in the bladder spread to one’s lymph nodes, it might cause swelling of the feet – a symptom called edema. It happens when fluid accumulates in the body and affects the legs and feet.

Fatigue
Although fatigue isn’t usually an early symptom of bladder cancer, one might feel progressively tired as the disease advances. Of course, various other health conditions share this symptom, but if other bladder cancer signs accompany it, it could indicate the progression of bladder cancer.

Bone pain
When the tumor developing in the bladder begins pushing against one’s bones, it might cause bone pain and tenderness. Bone pain can also happen when bladder cancer begins spreading to the bones.

Lifestyle and nutrition tips when healing from bladder cancer

Have lean proteins
Experts suggest that patients with bladder cancer should eat lean proteins like fish, poultry, and plant-based protein sources when healing from the condition. They should also avoid processed and red meats because they are difficult to digest and might worsen the symptoms.

Eat foods rich in healthy fats
Healthy fats help with vitamin absorption and repair damaged cells. So, bladder cancer patients should eat foods rich in healthy fats like olive oil, seeds, nuts, cashews, and avocados.

Have plenty of water
Dehydration is a common side effect of cancer interventions like chemotherapy, which can also cause constipation. That’s why patients with bladder cancer must stay hydrated by having at least eight cups of water daily, along with other healthy beverages like soups, fresh fruit juices, and smoothies.

Do not drink contaminated water
Contaminated water is one of the main contributors to bladder cancer. If a patient already grappling with bladder cancer has contaminated water, the symptoms and tumors may only worsen. So, people with bladder cancer should ensure that a good-quality water purifier is installed in their homes. It is best to avoid having food and water from outside as much as possible.

Have small meals throughout the day
While some patients undergoing cancer treatment might get constipated, some others might end up with diarrhea. If one has diarrhea during bladder cancer intervention, a good idea to control this side effect is to have small meals spread throughout the day instead of having a few large meals. This helps reduce pressure on the digestive tract and regulates motions.

Avoid spicy and oily foods
Spicy and oily foods can irritate the bladder lining and worsen tumors, eventually worsening bladder cancer symptoms. So, it is best to limit or totally avoid such foods, replacing them with mildly spiced food to manage symptoms better.

Stay physically active
Remaining physically active is important for a healthy lifestyle, especially if one has completed the treatment course. This helps reduce the risk of cancer relapse and prevents lifestyle diseases.