Kidney cancer can bring with it a long list of distressing warning signs. Private kidney cancer treatment is available—thankfully, plenty of treatments for kidney cancer exist such as Opdivo, rcc kidney diseases treatment, Inlyta in combination with Keytruda, renal cell carcinoma treatment, and stage 4 renal cell carcinoma treatment. Even with all of these available treatments, however, detecting and treating kidney cancer as early as possible is incredibly crucial. In this article, we’ll be going over 7 common warning signs of kidney cancer to look out for:

1. Hematuria
If you notice that there’s blood in your urine—also known as hematuria—it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Having this problem is a big indication that there’s an issue with the urethra, prostate, bladder, or kidney—including the potential of kidney cancer. Thus, urinating blood is a major warning sign and should be checked out immediately.

2. Appetite loss
While a loss of appetite is a common sign of many conditions, life changes, and mental health struggles, it also serves as a warning sign of kidney cancer. Those experiencing this may feel full quicker while eating or not feel hungry in general. Additionally, this loss of appetite can come with or without weight loss and cachexia, the latter of which is also known as body weakness resulting from chronic illness.

3. Anemia
Anemia, which is a condition involving a red blood cell deficiency or a deficiency of hemoglobin cells in the blood, is extremely common for those with kidney cancer. Anemia comes with its own list of symptoms such as, but not limited to, pale skin, intense fatigue, weakness, and an irregular heartbeat. If you believe that you or your loved one may have anemia, seeking the help of a medical professional is an important next step.

4. A lump
If you notice a mass located on your side or lower back, consulting with your doctor is very important. This is a major warning sign of kidney cancer, as it could mean that your kidney has a growth or is enlarged. Early on, a lump of this kind may even be noticed by your doctor during a routine examination. However, if you notice it yourself, seeking medical attention is likely in your best interest.

5. Flank pain
Somewhat similar to the sign of a lump, those with kidney cancer may notice that they are experiencing pain or pressure located in their side or lower back. This is known as flank pain, and it may result from kidney inflammation or the growth of a tumor. It’s described as being felt deeper inside of the body as opposed to general pain, and should definitely not be ignored or dismissed.

6. Recurring fever
While fevers can occur as a result of many conditions and illnesses, a recurring fever that is not from a cold or a flu could be a warning sign of kidney cancer. This occurs because a tumor can cause an infection and release pyrogens, also known as substances that can produce fevers.

7. Fatigue
Although it’s a general symptom of various different things, fatigue resulting from kidney cancer is often described as the most disruptive symptom. The mental, emotional, and physical toll that fatigue can have on the body is no joke, and it’s definitely important to get evaluated by a medical professional if you feel that you or your loved one’s fatigue may be a warning sign of a greater underlying issue such as kidney cancer.