Fortunately, the symptoms of bladder cancer are hard to ignore, leading to early detection in most cases. But it’s important not to take that fact for granted. Do you know the signs of bladder cancer?
Symptoms of Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer symptoms include:
- Urinating blood spots. These may appear red or dark brown, like pop. However, sometimes, this blood is not visible except under a microscope.
- Having to urinate a lot
- Pain when you urinate
- Back pain
Risk Factors for Bladder Cancer
Why do bladder cells mutate in the first place? Various environmental, lifestyle, and uncontrollable risk factors can cause the production of free radicals. These are unstable molecules that are missing an electron. They steal electrons from others, making the robbed molecule unstable as well. This leads to DNA damage. These risk factors include:
- Smoking, especially tobacco cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. The bladder and the kidneys are part of your body’s detoxifying system. Chemicals found in tobacco products damage the lining of the bladder, leading to abnormal cell growth.
- Aging, especially reaching 55
- Being male
- Exposure to harmful chemicals that the kidneys and bladder must filter out (e.g., arsenic, paint, certain dyes)
- Previous radiation treatments in the abdominal area
- Chronic bladder inflammation
- Personal or familial history of bladder cancer or colorectal cancer
Preventing Bladder Cancer
Some of the best steps you can take to reduce your risk of bladder cancer include:
- Stopping smoking tobacco (if you do)
- Taking safety precautions around industrial chemicals
- Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other antioxidant-rich foods.
Antioxidants can stabilize free radicals by giving them an electron without becoming unstable themselves.
When to Get Tested for Bladder Cancer
There is not enough evidence to support bladder cancer screening for people with no symptoms or average risk. If you are experiencing the symptoms mentioned above or have above-average risk factors discussed, you can request bladder cancer testing in Hartford, Enfield, or Glastonbury, CT. Call the Greater Hartford Urology Group now at 860-522-225. We look forward to seeing you.
