Bladder Cancer Signs and Symptoms

Blood in the urine (hematuria) is often the most common sign of bladder cancer. There are other symptoms to watch for as well. They may be caused by something other than bladder cancer, but it’s important to have them checked out by a doctor.

Signs of Bladder Cancer Blood in the Urine

It may be very faint with a pink tinge, or the blood may be obvious. Hematuria often occurs without pain or other urinary symptoms. Blood may not be present in the urine all the time — it may come and go. If blood is not visibly noticeable, it may be detected by a urine test.

Irritation, Pain, or Burning while Urinating
Any pain while urinating could be a sign of bladder cancer.

Urgency
Bladder cancer can cause a feeling of needing to urinate immediately, even though the bladder is not full.

Frequency
The need to urinate often may be caused by bladder cancer.

Having to Urinate at Night
Bladder cancer may wake you up at night with an overwhelming need to urinate.

Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom of many different types of cancer, including bladder cancer.

Flank Pain
Pain between the abdomen and back on one side of the body could be a symptom of bladder cancer.

Loss of Appetite
Bladder cancer may make it uncomfortable to eat or make you feel like you don’t want to eat at all.

Weight Loss
Weight loss is a common symptom of many types of cancer, including bladder cancer.