Cancer is a disturbing diagnosis that can hamper a patient's life in numerous ways. Bladder cancer is one such cancer that affects the urinary system. This cancer can prove to be extremely hard to cope with because of its effect on daily life. In this blog post, we'll discuss the primary cause of bladder cancer, bladder tumour and cancer, bladder cancer symptoms, and treatment alternatives.

Causes of Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer is caused by cells in the bladder growing and dividing abnormally. There are multiple things that can boost your risk for bladder cancer. 

1. Smoking: Smoking and tobacco use is the biggest cause of bladder cancer. The bad chemicals in cigarettes can harm the DNA in bladder cells, resulting in mutations and the making of cancer cells.

2. Certain chemicals: Various chemicals and toxins can raise the danger of getting bladder cancer. These chemicals are used in the dye industry, rubber making, and leather tanning. People who have regular exposure to those chemicals have a higher chance of getting bladder cancer.

3. Cystitis: Long-term Bladder inflammation, called cystitis, can bring up the risk of bladder cancer. This can be caused by infections or other things that bother the bladder lining, causing inflammation and harm to bladder cells.

4. Genetics: Having a family history of bladder cancer can increase the chance of getting it. It may be possible that genetic mutations passed down make the chance of cancer go up.

Bladder Tumour/Cancer Signs & Symptoms

Although uncommon, bladder tumours and cancers can be fatal if not detected in their early stages.

The signs and symptoms of bladder tumours and cancers are comparable to other gastroenterological conditions, rendering diagnosis difficult. Usual symptoms can involve:

• Blood in urine (hematuria)

• Frequent urination

• Painful urination

• Back pain

• Loss of appetite or weight loss

Seeking medical assistance should be a priority, especially if symptoms persist or worsen, for timely detection and successful treatment of bladder tumours and cancers.

How to Deal With Bladder Cancer Treatment?

Here is some advice for dealing with bladder cancer treatment: 

1. Educate Yourself: One of the big steps for dealing with bladder cancer treatment is learning about the illness and treatment choices. Speak with your doctor, read medical articles and blogs, and connect with support groups. Comprehending your diagnosis and treatment selections can help you experience more in charge and be better ready to deal with the troubles ahead.

2. Seek Support: Getting diagnosed with a life-threatening illness like bladder cancer can be really lonely and solitary. But you don't have to face it by yourself. Stay in touch with your acquaintances, join a support group for help, or talk to a counsellor or therapist. These resources can give emotional help, practical advice, and a feeling of belonging to a community.

3. Take Care of Yourself: Treating bladder cancer can be a tiring process, both emotionally and physically, so it's important to look after yourself during this period. Get lots of rest, eat a healthy diet, exercise when you can, and take time for things that make you happy and relaxed.

4. Manage Side Effects: Treatment for bladder cancer can cause side effects like tiredness, being sick, and irritation of the bladder. Work with your doctor to manage these symptoms well, whether through medications or lifestyle changes. Talk to your doctor if the side effects get worse or affect your life quality.

5. Stay Positive: Dealing with bladder cancer can be difficult, but it's crucial to keep a good attitude. Surround yourself with positivity, whether it be through supportive friends and family or activities that bring you joy. A good attitude can assist you in dealing with the difficulties of treatment and increase your general well-being.

Conclusion

Living with bladder cancer or bladder tumours and cancer can be hard, but it's essential to recall you aren't alone. There are many resources accessible to help you to manage the physical and emotional struggles of cancer treatment, such as support groups, counsellors, and medical professionals.

You should go to the doctor fast if you have bladder cancer in your family or have any symptoms. You can manage bladder cancer or bladder tumours and cancer with a good attitude.

FAQs

1. What are the common side effects of bladder cancer treatments?

Side effects vary by treatment but may include fatigue, nausea, urinary changes, and skin irritation. Your doctor can provide strategies to manage these symptoms effectively.

2. How can I manage fatigue during bladder cancer treatment?

Rest when needed, eat a balanced diet, and stay mildly active if possible. Speak with your healthcare provider about energy-boosting techniques.

3. Will bladder cancer treatment affect my ability to work?

It depends on the intensity of your treatment and job demands. Many patients adjust their work schedules or take short breaks. Discuss options with your employer.

4. Can I exercise during bladder cancer treatment?

Light to moderate exercise can help maintain energy and mood. Always consult your doctor before starting any activity to ensure it's safe for you.

5. What should I do if I experience urinary problems during treatment?

Inform your doctor immediately. They may suggest medications, pelvic floor exercises, or other interventions to improve symptoms.

Citations

Freedman, N. D., Silverman, D. T., Hollenbeck, A. R., Schatzkin, A., & Abnet, C. C. (2011). Association between smoking and risk of bladder cancer among men and women. JAMA, 306(7), 737. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2011.1142

Koutros, S., Decker, K. L., Baris, D., Pardo, L. A., Johnson, A., Hosain, G. M., Rothman, N., Karagas, M. R., Schwenn, M. R., & Silverman, D. T. (2021). Bladder cancer risk associated with family history of cancer. International Journal of Cancer, 148(12), 2915–2923. https://doi.org/10.1002/ijc.33486

Letašiová, S., Medveďová, A., Šovčíková, A., Dušinská, M., Volkovová, K., Mosoiu, C., & Bartonová, A. (2012). Bladder cancer, a review of the environmental risk factors. Environmental Health, 11(Suppl 1), S11. https://doi.org/10.1186/1476-069x-11-s1-s11

Wu, M. P., Luo, H. L., Weng, S. F., Ho, C., Chancellor, M. B., & Chuang, Y. C. (2018). Risk of Urinary Tract Carcinoma among Subjects with Bladder Pain Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis: A Nationwide Population-Based Study. BioMed Research International, 2018, 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/7495081