Our blood is filtered mostly by our kidneys. Inside our kidneys, tumors or growths can occasionally form. While many of these growths are not malignant, some of them are. To find out whether your lump is malignant or not, you must get it examined.
Treatment choices come in a wide variety. If your cancer is detected early, there are frequently even more options. Your medical staff is on hand to assist you. They can assist you in learning more about the advantages and disadvantages of certain therapies. Here, we go over further information about kidney cancer and what you can do if a mass develops in your body.
Kidney Cancer Facts
With more than 76,000 new cases identified each year, kidney cancer is one of the top 10 most prevalent malignancies in the country. Kidney cancer is detected in more males than in women. Anyone can get kidney cancer or kidney tumors, although African Americans, American Indians, and Alaskan Natives are more likely to do so. Although kidney cancer can occur at any age, it is more frequent in the elderly, those greater than 75 years old. Your chances of survival are improved the earlier kidney cancer is discovered.
Symptoms of Kidney Tumor
In the early stages, the majority of kidney tumors are symptomless. If there are signs, they will probably include:
- Hematuria- blood in the urine
- Hip and rib region of the back hurt
- Having persistent low back discomfort on one side that isn't related to an injury
- Reduced appetite
- Dieting does not lead to weight reduction
- Fever that is persistent and not brought on by an infection
- Anemia- low red blood cell count
Diagnosis of Kidney Tumors
Over 50% of kidney tumors are discovered by accident. A kidney tumor is frequently discovered during routine screening or when a patient visits a doctor with another issue. Your doctor could refer you to a urologist if they suspect you have kidney issues. A physician who focuses on the urinary system is called a urologist.
Prevention
Kidney cancer frequently has an unknown origin. Even when the cause is known in certain other situations, as with hereditary diseases, prevention may not be possible. However, there are certain methods you might be able to lower your chance of contracting this illness. Here are five ways to reduce your chances of getting kidney cancer:
- Stop Smoking - Since smoking accounts for a significant portion of instances, quitting might reduce your risk.
- Curb Obesity - Renal cell carcinoma is also at risk due to obesity and high blood pressure. You may lower your risk of contracting this condition by exercising regularly and eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Reduce Exposure to Certain Toxins - Analyze your exposure to various poisons to see if it occurs at work or home. Cadmium, asbestos, and trichloroethylene are a few pollutants that might raise the risk of kidney cancer.
- Nurture Your Kidneys - Take care of your kidneys because kidney cancer risk may be higher in those with renal disease:
- Consult your doctor about two quick tests to determine how well your kidneys are functioning.
- Avoid using NSAIDs for an extended period, including ibuprofen and naproxen.
- Lower elevated blood pressure.
- If you have diabetes, control your blood sugar levels.
- Pay attention to Risk Factors - Recognize the following risk factors that cannot be changed but should be monitored such as a history of kidney cancer in your family.
Treatment
The major objectives of treating kidney masses are to rid you of the malignancy and, where feasible, safeguard kidney function. For individuals with one functioning kidney or other renal diseases, protecting kidney function is very crucial.
Some people will never require surgery. Surgery could be the best option for certain people. The tumor may need to be biopsied in some cases to determine how aggressive it could be. Then, one of four treatment options may be suggested by your doctor. Which are:
- Active monitoring
- Ablation
- Complete nephrectomy
- Radical kidney removal
Post Treatment
Keeping follow-up appointments and communicating with your doctor is very important. These examinations are crucial to monitor for tumor regrowth. Your doctor may use many of the same tests to diagnose the kidney tumor after the first therapy.
Living a healthy lifestyle has benefits. Try to quit smoking if you currently do so. Try to consume less alcohol and maintain a healthy diet. Try to maintain your weight within the suggested ranges by exercising.
Call Bass Medical
You have a very good probability of survival if kidney cancer is found early. For early detection of kidney cancer, regular screening visits with your doctor are imperative. Bass Medical Group will collaborate with you and your medical team to offer expert care employing the most modern techniques and equipment when you are diagnosed with kidney cancer. We focus on treatments with fewer side effects and better outcomes so you can get back to living your life more quickly.