7 Signs of Bladder Cancer You Should Not Ignore

Most of us carry a quiet fear that we might face cancer at some point in life—especially common types like breast, colon, or bladder cancer. What’s concerning is that certain warning signs of bladder cancer are often overlooked and should never be ignored.

So, what exactly is bladder cancer? It is a type of cancer that usually affects adults over the age of 50–55 and is more common in men than women. The disease typically begins in the inner lining of the bladder and may gradually spread to nearby tissues. The good news is that bladder cancer is often treatable when detected early.

Some common symptoms include frequent urination and pain or discomfort while passing urine. Unfortunately, many warning signs are mistaken for minor urinary problems, leading people to delay testing—sometimes with serious consequences.

There are also several subtle or “silent” symptoms that may not be obvious at first. Below are some surprising signs of bladder cancer that should not be ignored:

# Blood clots in urine

The presence of blood or blood clots in urine is a key symptom of bladder cancer and is often misinterpreted as a urinary tract infection or another minor issue.

# Burning sensation while urinating

A persistent burning or stinging sensation during urination, experienced by both men and women, can be an early warning sign.

# Passing very little urine

If you feel the urge to urinate frequently but pass only a few drops each time, it may indicate a bladder problem, including infection or cancer.

# Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Frequent or recurring UTIs should not be ignored. In some cases, they may be linked to bladder cancer and, in women, can also signal other serious conditions.

# Dark-colored urine

Urine that appears darker than usual, without any clear reason, could be a silent sign that warrants medical testing.

# Pain during intercourse

Painful sexual intercourse can be caused by several conditions, but bladder cancer may be one of the underlying reasons.

# Swelling in the legs

Swelling of the legs, along with back pain, can occur when the kidneys are affected, leading to fluid retention in the body.