When you’re dealing with any health concern, especially one as significant as bladder cancer, it’s natural to have questions about its symptoms and how they might affect your body. One of the most common concerns you might have is whether bladder cancer causes pain, and if so, what that pain might feel like.

What is bladder cancer?

Bladder cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the bladder – the organ responsible for storing urine.

In the UK, bladder cancer is the tenth most common cancer, with over 10,000 new cases diagnosed annually. Although it can affect anyone, it’s more common in older adults, particularly those over 60. Men are also more likely to develop bladder cancer than women.

Understanding how bladder cancer manifests and the symptoms it causes can help you better prepare for potential diagnoses and treatments.

Does bladder cancer cause pain?

Yes, bladder cancer can cause pain, but the type, intensity, and location of the pain can vary depending on the stage and severity of the disease.

Pain associated with bladder cancer can stem from several factors, such as the tumour itself, inflammation in the bladder, or secondary effects like infections. Here’s a breakdown of what you might experience:

1. Bladder pain

Bladder pain is one of the hallmark symptoms of bladder cancer. This discomfort is often described as a dull ache or persistent pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvic area. As the tumour grows, it can irritate the bladder lining, leading to inflammation and pain. For some, this pain may be mild and intermittent, while others might experience more constant and severe discomfort.

2. Pain during urination

Many people with bladder cancer report a burning or stinging sensation when passing urine. This symptom, known as dysuria, can be mistaken for a urinary tract infection (UTI), which is why it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if the pain persists or recurs after treatment.

3. Pelvic pain

As bladder cancer progresses, the tumour can invade nearby tissues and organs, causing pain in the pelvic region. This pain might feel sharp or throbbing and can sometimes radiate to the lower back or thighs.

4. Bone pain

If bladder cancer spreads (metastasises) to the bones, it can cause significant pain in these areas. Bone pain is often deep and aching and may worsen at night or with activity.

Other symptoms of bladder cancer

While bladder pain is a significant symptom, bladder cancer often presents with other signs. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Blood in the urine (haematuria): Blood in the urine is often the first and most noticeable symptom. It may appear as bright red or rust-coloured streaks in your urine or give the urine a pinkish hue.
• Frequent urination: You might find yourself needing to urinate more often than usual, even if the bladder isn’t full.
• Urgency: A sudden, strong urge to urinate that’s difficult to control.
• Incomplete emptying of the bladder: Feeling like you haven’t fully emptied your bladder after urinating.

These symptoms can also occur in other less serious conditions, like infections or kidney stones, so they’re not exclusive to bladder cancer. However, if you experience these signs alongside persistent bladder pain, it’s crucial to seek medical advice promptly.

Risk factors for bladder cancer

Understanding the risk factors can help you stay vigilant about potential symptoms.Some of the main risk factors include:

• Smoking: Smoking is the most significant preventable cause of bladder cancer, responsible for around 37% of cases in men and 12% in women.
• Exposure to chemicals: Working with industrial chemicals, such as those used in dye manufacturing, can increase your risk.
• Age and gender: The risk of bladder cancer increases with age and is more common in men.
• Chronic bladder irritation: Conditions like repeated UTIs or long-term catheter use can raise the risk.
• Family history: A family history of bladder cancer may also increase your likelihood of developing the disease.

Diagnosing bladder cancer

If you’re experiencing symptoms like bladder pain or blood in your urine, your doctor might recommend a series of tests to diagnose bladder cancer. These could include:

• Urine tests: To detect blood, infection, or abnormal cells in your urine.
• Cystoscopy: Cystoscopy is a procedure where a thin tube with a camera is inserted into your bladder to look for abnormalities.
• Imaging tests: CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds can provide detailed images of your bladder and surrounding organs.
• Biopsy: If a tumour is detected, a small tissue sample may be taken for analysis.

Coping with bladder cancer pain

Pain management is an integral part of treating bladder cancer. If bladder pain or other discomfort becomes an issue, your doctor can work with you to develop a pain management plan. This may include:

• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription drugs.
• Bladder installations: Medications delivered directly into the bladder to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Lifestyle adjustments: Staying hydrated, avoiding bladder irritants like caffeine and alcohol, and maintaining a healthy diet can help.

Seeking support

Dealing with bladder cancer and its associated pain can be physically and emotionally challenging. Support groups, counselling, and charities can provide valuable resources and assistance. You don’t have to face it alone.

Final notes

Bladder cancer can cause pain, but the experience varies greatly from person to person. By understanding the potential symptoms, seeking early diagnosis, and exploring appropriate treatments, you can improve your quality of life and overall outcome.

Whether you’re coping with bladder pain, undergoing treatment, or supporting a loved one, it’s essential to stay informed and work closely with healthcare professionals to address your concerns.

Related reading: Latest Treatments for Bladder Cancer.