Symptoms of kidney cancer
Most people who are diagnosed with kidney cancer do not have any symptoms. They might be having a scan for other things and it shows that they have a kidney cancer. This is called an incidental diagnosis. Their cancer has been found by chance when investigating something else.
When someone does have symptoms, these might include:
- blood in the urine
- a lump or mass in the kidney area
- a pain in the side between the ribs and the hip (flank)
Blood in the urine
Blood in the urine (called haematuria) is the most common symptom of kidney cancer.
It can also be caused by other things such as an infection, enlargement of the prostate or kidney stones. Always see your GP if you see any blood in your urine.
The blood does not have to be there all the time. It can come and go. Sometimes, the blood can't be seen by the naked eye. Your doctor can do a simple urine test to check.
A lump or mass in the kidney area
If you feel a lump or swelling in the area of your kidneys, you should see your doctor.
Most kidney cancers are too small for you or a doctor to feel. But your doctor can arrange an ultrasound scan to check for cancer.
A pain in the side between the ribs and the hip (flank)
A pain in the side between your ribs and the hip (flank) can be a sign of kidney cancer. The pain may also go around to your lower back.
It can also be caused by other things like an infection or kidney stones. See your doctor if you keep getting this pain.
Other symptoms
Some people have other symptoms which can be vague. These are:
- weight loss
- a high temperature and very heavy sweating
- tiredness
- loss of appetite
- a general feeling of poor health
A high temperature and sweats can be caused by an infection. Your doctor may want to rule this out first.
High blood pressure and having fewer red blood cells than normal (anaemia) can also be symptoms of kidney cancer. These symptoms are related to the hormones the kidneys produce.
All the symptoms above can be caused by many other conditions. Most people who have them will not have cancer. But if you have any of these symptoms, go to your doctor. If it is cancer, it will be easier to treat if it’s diagnosed early.
