Bladder cancer is a common form of cancer that can afflict anyone. Let’s go over the info you need to know about bladder cancer symptoms and risk factors.
Bladder cancer is a common form of cancer, with thousands diagnosed each year. Understanding its risk factors, recognizing symptoms early, and knowing what life might look like after treatment can help those who may face this diagnosis. Let’s explore what you need to know about bladder cancer, its symptoms, risk factors, and options for living well after treatment.
Risk Factors of Bladder Cancer
Several factors can increase the risk of bladder cancer. While some of these risk factors are genetic or related to family history, many are environmental or behavioral.
Common Bladder Cancer Risk Factors:
- Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes is one of the leading causes of bladder cancer. The chemicals in tobacco can collect in the bladder and irritate its lining.
- Bladder Irritants: Chronic bladder irritation may increase the risk. This includes:
- Bladder Stones: The buildup of hard mineral deposits.
- Frequent UTIs: Regular urinary tract infections can cause chronic irritation.
- Indwelling Catheter Use: Long-term use of certain types of catheters.
- Chemical Exposure: People in certain professions, like painters, hairdressers, rubber workers, and textile or metal workers, may face higher risks due to exposure to certain industrial chemicals.
- Age & Gender: Bladder cancer is more common in men and typically affects older adults, though it can develop at any age.
- Previous Cancer Treatment: Those who have had certain chemotherapy drugs or radiation therapy to the pelvic area may have an increased risk.
While these factors can increase the likelihood of developing bladder cancer, it’s important to remember that having one or more risk factors doesn’t mean you’ll develop the condition.
Symptoms of Bladder Cancer in Men and Women
Early detection is key to increasing the chances of successful treatment, so it’s essential to recognize possible symptoms.
Common Symptoms to Look For:
- Blood in the Urine (Hematuria): This is often the first sign of bladder cancer. It can appear as red or pink urine or only be visible under a microscope.
- Frequent Urination: A sudden urge to urinate more often than usual.
- Painful Urination: Burning, discomfort, or pain during urination.
- Pelvic Pain or Discomfort: Aching or pressure in the lower abdomen.
- Back Pain: Unexplained pain in the lower back or along the sides of your body.
If you notice any of these symptoms, reach out to a healthcare professional or urologist. It’s essential to receive an accurate diagnosis, as these symptoms can also indicate other conditions like UTIs or kidney stones.
Additionally, if you use catheters, follow proper sterile techniques to reduce infection risk, as infections can lead to complications.
Diagnosing and Treating Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer is typically diagnosed through urine tests, imaging studies like CT scans, and a cystoscopy, which involves examining the inside of your bladder with a small camera. Once diagnosed, your healthcare provider will determine the cancer’s stage and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, or a combination of these treatments.
Life After Bladder Cancer: Managing Urostomy Surgery
If caught early, bladder cancer is treatable, and many people go on to live fulfilling lives. For some, treatment may involve the removal of the bladder, called a cystectomy, as part of the effort to prevent cancer from spreading.
When the bladder is removed, urine must be rerouted from the body. There are a couple of options:
1. Urostomy Surgery After Bladder Cancer:
A urostomy creates a new way for urine to leave your body. During this surgery, a small piece of the intestine is used to connect the ureters to a stoma (an opening on the abdomen). The urine then flows into an external urostomy pouch worn on the body.
Life with a urostomy requires some adjustment, but many people adapt well over time. Proper care and choosing the right supplies can help you maintain an active lifestyle.
2. Neobladder Reconstruction:
For some, a neobladder is created from a section of the intestine and connected to the urethra, allowing for more typical urination. This option may allow for greater independence, but it may also require intermittent catheterization to fully empty the bladder.
Living Well with a Urostomy or Neobladder
Adapting to life after bladder cancer surgery is about learning to manage your new urinary system effectively. If you’ve undergone urostomy surgery, choosing high-quality supplies can improve comfort and ease of use.
At 180 Medical, we provide a range of products to support your needs, including intermittent catheters, urostomy pouches, and other ostomy products. Contact us today to explore your insurance-covered urostomy options. We’ll gladly help you find the right supplies for your needs.
