What are the symptoms of kidney cancer?

Written by Li Liu Sheng
Nephrology
Updated on November 19, 2024
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Kidney cancer is a common tumor in urological surgery, and a typical symptom in patients with kidney cancer is the appearance of hematuria. The characteristic of this hematuria is that it is painless visible hematuria throughout the course. Initially, the severity of the hematuria is relatively mild, occurring intermittently. However, over time, the hematuria gradually worsens, and the intervals shorten, even leading to significant bleeding. Another symptom of kidney cancer is back pain, which is caused by the increased size of the tumor pulling on the kidney, causing pain. When the tumor presses, it can also lead to severe back pain. A mass is another common symptom of kidney cancer; when a mass is felt on one side of the upper abdomen or back and moves up and down with respiration, it is generally indicative of the late stages of kidney cancer. Therefore, the typical symptoms of kidney cancer are hematuria, pain, and a mass.

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Written by Zou De Bo
Urology
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Post-nephrectomy care for renal cancer

Postoperative care measures for kidney cancer primarily include observing the patient's vital signs. After a radical nephrectomy for a large renal tumor, a significant amount of tissue is removed including the kidney, surrounding adrenal fat, and lymph nodes at the renal hilum, which results in larger surgical wounds and potentially more bleeding. Therefore, it is crucial to closely monitor for signs of bleeding and ensure that transfusions and fluid administrations are unobstructed. Secondly, careful observation and management of the wound drainage tubes are required. Thirdly, for radical nephrectomies, once the patient is past the anesthesia phase and the blood pressure is stable, a semi-reclined position can be adopted. Patients who have undergone partial nephrectomy should remain in bed for one to two weeks to prevent further bleeding, and kidney functions should be monitored. Additionally, attention should be paid to symptoms such as breath holding and difficulty in breathing. Postoperative feeding should commence once gastrointestinal function is restored; thereafter, nutrition should be enhanced to boost bodily resistance. Calming medications may be appropriately used to ease pain, facilitating movement, effective coughing, and expectoration.

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Written by Guan Hai Fang
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What to do if kidney cancer recurs?

Generally, if kidney cancer is detected early and treated effectively, the prognosis is usually very favorable. However, if it reaches a late stage, even with effective surgery and the correct comprehensive treatment plan, recurrence is more likely. At this time, it is generally recommended to adhere to the treatment plan prescribed by the hospital. Additionally, the concept of extending life with the disease is recommended here, suggesting that patients consume a large amount of meat, especially fish, to supplement the protein needed to offset the physical toll of cancer. Do not fear obesity; eat more fish. Of course, it is also important to ensure a balanced intake of comprehensive nutrients, including plenty of fruits and vegetables.

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Causes of Renal Cancer

The cause of kidney cancer is unknown, but possible factors include: First, smoking, which is a relative risk factor for kidney cancer. Second, obesity and hypertension. Third, occupation, with reports indicating that long-term exposure to metallic lead, print industry workers, coke workers, and workers shows increased risks of incidence and mortality from kidney cancer. Fourth, radiation, where long-term exposure to certain sources of radiation may increase the risk of kidney cancer. Fifth, there is a certain relation to genetics. Sixth, dietary factors, as studies have found that high intake of dairy products, animal protein, and fat, and low intake of fruits and vegetables, are also risk factors for kidney cancer.

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Renal cancer interventional treatment efficacy.

Interventional treatment for kidney cancer is a relatively effective treatment method. Kidney cancer is a common malignant tumor in the urinary system. Tumors in the kidneys can cause dysfunction in the body's endocrine system, usually resulting in symptoms such as polycythemia, hypercalcemia, and changes in kidney function. Interventional treatment is a major method for treating kidney cancer. Its advantages are that it is patient-oriented and addresses both the root and symptoms. The treatment drugs can directly target the affected area, not only increasing the concentration of drugs at the lesion site but also reducing the dosage of drugs and their toxic side effects.

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Is late-stage kidney cancer contagious?

Advanced kidney cancer is not contagious from person to person. Kidney cancer is when the tissues of the kidney undergo abnormal proliferation and the condition has advanced to a late stage. Generally, it is recommended that patients with kidney cancer follow a high-protein, low-salt, low-sugar diet, avoid foods that increase the metabolic burden on the kidneys, and focus on fine, refined, and soft foods to improve the efficiency of nutrient absorption. Patients can eat more fruits and vegetables to increase their intake of vitamins and fibers. It is also generally advised for patients to eat more garlic, avoid eating leftovers, overnight foods, pickled items, abstain from alcohol, especially strong spirits, and avoid smoking.