Kidney Cancer: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Methods
Kidney cancer has become a more common disease today due to factors such as increased obesity and smoking. Experts emphasize the importance of understanding the symptoms and treatment methods of this disease. In this article, we will provide comprehensive information about the symptoms, causes and treatment methods of kidney cancer.
Kidney Cancer Symptoms
Kidney cancer can often progress without symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, some symptoms may appear. Below are the most common symptoms of kidney cancer:
- Blood in Urine: Pink, red or cola-colored blood in your urine is one of the most obvious symptoms of kidney cancer.
- Back and Lumbar Pain: Persistent back and waist pain is another symptom of kidney tumors.
- Swelling: A swelling or mass may be felt on the sides of the waist area.
- High Fever and Excessive Sweating: These symptoms may be seen in some patients.
- Tiredness: A constant feeling of fatigue may be a sign of kidney cancer.
- Appetite and Weight Loss: Loss of appetite and associated weight loss may occur if the disease progresses.
- Anemia: Low hemoglobin levels may be associated with kidney cancer.
Causes of Kidney Cancer
The exact cause of kidney cancer is not known. However, some factors are thought to be effective in the development of the disease:
- Obesity: Being overweight increases the risk of kidney cancer.
- Smoking: The risk of kidney cancer is significantly higher in individuals who smoke.
- Occupational Chemical Exposure: People exposed to chemicals may have an increased risk of kidney cancer.
- Long-Term Kidney Stones: Long-term presence of kidney stones increases the risk of cancer.
- Genetic Factors: In some familial diseases, tumor development can be observed in both kidneys.
Diagnosis of Kidney Tumors
Kidney tumors are often diagnosed incidentally during medical tests for other diseases. Because they can be asymptomatic, patients are often subjected to imaging tests such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) for another reason. This allows the disease to be detected at an early stage.
In addition to imaging methods, specialist doctors can also provide more information. percutaneous biopsy Methods such as can also be used. With this method, samples can be taken from the tumor tissue and detailed examinations can be performed.
Kidney Cancer Treatment Methods
The most common method of treating kidney cancer is surgery. The type of treatment depends on the size of the tumor, its location, and the patient's general health. Treatment methods include:
- Surgical intervention: Depending on the size of the tumor, the entire kidney or just the tumorous part may need to be removed. Laparoscopic and robot-assisted surgeries offer less pain and a faster recovery time for patients.
- Cryotherapy: For tumors smaller than 4 cm, treatment with freezing may be applied.
- Radiofrequency Ablation: With this method, tumor cells are destroyed by heating.
Kidney Cancer Prevention Methods
It is possible to take some precautions to protect yourself from kidney cancer. Regular health checks and ultrasound examinations of the kidneys are recommended, especially after the age of 45. In addition, adopting a healthy lifestyle, avoiding obesity and quitting smoking are also important steps.
In conclusion, being informed about kidney cancer symptoms and treatment methods is vital for early diagnosis and treatment. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits and having regular checkups is an important step to reduce the risk of this disease.
