Signs and symptoms of urological cancers
vary depending on the type and stage of cancer.
Signs and symptoms of prostate cancer
Not all people with prostate cancer will have symptoms, at least not symptoms that are noticeable. However, as the cancer grows, it may cause signs and symptoms, such as:
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Trouble with urination (difficulty starting to urinate or difficulty holding urine back)
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Weak urine stream or interruption of stream
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Pelvic discomfort
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Bone pain
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Erectile dysfunction (ED)
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Painful urination or ejaculation
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Blood in the urine
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Blood in the semen
Symptoms of bladder cancer
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Blood in the urine - Bladder cancer can often be detected early, as it tends to cause blood in the urine (known as hematuria). That blood can cause the urine to change color.
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Changes in urination habits - Having pain or burning during urination, urinating more often than usual and having a strong urge to urinate even when your bladder isn't full can all be signs of bladder cancer. (These are also signs of other conditions, including urinary tract infections. If you have changes in urination habits, contact your doctor.)
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Inability to urinate
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Lower back pain, especially on one side
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Loss of appetite
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Weight loss
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Swelling in the feet (edema)
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Bone pain
Symptoms of kidney cancer
Signs and symptoms of kidney cancer can be similar to symptoms of kidney infection, but the following symptoms and signs should always be checked out:
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Blood in the urine (discolored urine that is pink, red or brown-ish may be a sign of blood)
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Continuous back pain just below the ribs
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Fatigue
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Weight loss
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Fever (which may come and go)
Signs and symptoms of penile cancer
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Change in the skin on the penis, such as color change, change in thickness, a sore or lump, and new tissue build up
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A rash or flat growths that can bed reddish, velvety, crusty or blueish-brown
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Discharge or drainage from the penis that may be accompanied by a foul smell
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Swelling near the tip of the penis
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Swollen lymph nodes in the groin
Signs and symptoms of testicular cancer
Most of the time, testicular cancer only affects one testicle. The signs and symptoms may include:
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A lump in the testicle
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An enlarged testicle
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A heavy feeling in the scrotum
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Pain in a testicle or the scrotum
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An achy feeling in the groin or lower abdomen
When to call your doctor
If you have symptoms of any urological cancer, call your doctor right away to make an appointment. With one phone call to Beaumont's Urological Cancer Multidisciplinary Clinic, you'll get in touch with a nurse navigator who will help you every step of the way. Their number is 877-BEAT-CANCER (877-232-8226).
Learn more about urological cancers
Learn more about our cancer care at Beaumont