What are the symptoms of bladder cancer?

Blood in the urine may be visible, or it may be found only on a urine test. Other changes can include needing to urinate more often, a sudden urge to urinate, burning or pain while passing urine, a weak stream, or difficulty emptying the bladder. Ongoing lower abdominal or pelvic discomfort can also occur. These features overlap with urinary infections, stones, prostate conditions, and other problems, so a symptom does not establish bladder cancer. Symptoms may be intermittent, which still warrants assessment if they recur.

Contact a clinician about blood in the urine or persistent urinary changes, even if they settle. Assessment may include a urine sample, blood tests, and imaging. A Cystoscopy allows a clinician to inspect the inside of the bladder and, when needed, take a tissue sample. The findings guide whether treatment such as Intravesical BCG Therapy, Chemotherapy, Immunotherapy, or Bladder Removal Surgery is relevant.

Seek urgent care if you cannot pass urine, have heavy or continuing bleeding, pass clots that block the flow, feel faint, or develop severe pain with fever. These symptoms can signal a blockage, significant blood loss, or infection requiring prompt treatment.

Could an infection, stone, or prostate problem explain my symptoms? Do I need urine testing or a Cystoscopy? What should I do if the bleeding returns? If a tumour is found, how will its depth and spread affect treatment choices?