Let’s Talk Bladder Cancer

Hello you lovely people,

It’s September so that means its Urology Awareness Month and I feel it’s time for a deep dive into all things bladder! We need to talk about bladder cancer, bladder health, and stoma care. Whether you’re here for a bit of awareness or just because you like my waffling’s, stay with me as there is a lot to say!

Bladder Cancer: The Cinderella of Cancers

Bladder cancer may not be the most talked-about cancer but it should be. It is one of the most downplayed cancers around. For instance, when I was diagnosed, a Urology Nurse asked me why I was crying because “bladder cancer is the easiest cancers ‘to get rid of’”. Her words were “They scoop it out and if it grows back, then scoop it out again” She may have been trying to reassure me but, I was made to feel that bladder cancer didn’t deserve my tears and that it was a ‘nothing’ cancer.

That couldn’t be further from the truth. Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy, constant TURBT (Trans Urethral Removal of Bladder Tumour) and finally bladder removal and a full hysterectomy (not to mention the shortening of my vagina and other ‘bits’) all take a toll. Not forgetting those who have the permanent fixture of a stoma to remind them of what bladder cancer does to us.

I’d like to educate everyone on the signs of bladder cancer so if you have one of the following then I urge you to get to your doctor ASAP. It could just be an infection but, it is better to be safe and catch it early.

Signs & Symptoms of Bladder Cancer

Blood in Your Wee (Haematuria)

The big one. If you spot any blood in your wee, even if it’s a faint pink, please don’t brush it off. You wouldn’t ignore a cracked wine glass, so don’t ignore this! Sometimes the blood is microscopic, but if something feels off, get to the GP quicker than you can say, “cup of tea and a cake.”

Running to the Loo More Often

If you’re visiting the loo more than your local pub, something might be up. Night-time trips could be a warning sign. And no, it’s not always because you had that extra cuppa before bed.

Pain When You Pee (Dysuria)

A burning sensation when you pee isn’t always a UTI. If it sticks around longer than an unwanted guest, don’t just grin and bear it — see a doctor.

Lower Back or Pelvic Pain

If your lower back is causing you grief and you haven’t been doing the tango all weekend, it might be time to look into it. Pain around the pelvis could mean something’s up with your bladder.

Feeling Like You’ve Got to Go Again After Just Going

We’ve all been there — you’ve just relieved yourself, and suddenly you need to go again. Annoying, right? Well, it could also be a sign that something isn’t quite right.

Fatigue and Unexplained Weight Loss

If you’re losing weight without switching your chocolate hobnobs for kale or feel like you need a nap after waking up, this could be another red flag. Don’t just write it off as one of life’s little mysteries.

Catch It Early, Save Yourself!

Here’s the deal, bladder cancer can be treated if caught early. Don’t wait, if something feels off, get it checked. It’s as simple as that. And don’t get fobbed off. Ask for a second, third or fiftieth opinion (ok so hopefully not that many) it’s your body and you know when something isn’t right.

How to Keep Your Bladder Happy: Tips for a Healthy Bladder

Stay Hydrated, but Don’t Go Mad

Yes, we all know water is life, but don’t be that person carrying a 5-litre jug like it’s the latest accessory. Six to eight glasses a day is enough (unless you have been otherwise advised by a healthcare professional), balance is key, like knowing when to stop at two glasses of wine instead of three.

Avoid Bladder irritants

Caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and artificial sweeteners can all irritate your bladder, have them in moderation and you should be alright.

Pee when you have to go

No, holding in your wee isn’t some sort of strength test. If you’ve got to go, just go. Your bladder’s not a clown balloon — let it do its thing.

Kick the Smoking Habit

Smoking isn’t just bad for your lungs; it’s also a big old risk factor for bladder cancer. If you’re still puffing away, swap those fags for something healthier — cake, maybe? (Okay, maybe not cake, but you get the idea.)

Move It, Move It

Staying active is good for everything — heart, mind, body, and bladder. And don’t forget those pelvic floor exercises! Strong pelvic floors aren’t just for new mums — they’re for anyone with a bladder.

CliniMed have free Men’s Pelvic Floor Exercise and Women’s Pelvic Floor Exercise guides available to download to help you strengthen those floors.

Eat for Your Bladder

A diet full of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and Omega-3s is what you want. Think salmon, spinach, and a bit of sunshine for that Vitamin D. Your bladder will be doing a happy dance!

Check Your Meds

Some medications can mess with your bladder’s vibe. If things go pear-shaped after starting a new prescription, have a chat with your GP.

Bladder Health with a Stoma: Keeping it Real

Now, for you lovely lot living with a stoma — whether it’s fresh and new or you’re an old hand at this game, bladder health is still important. A stoma might have changed how things work, but that doesn’t mean we ignore the rest of the plumbing.

Stay Hydrated, Stoma Style

Hydration is just as important with a stoma, but it can be a balancing act. Drink plenty of fluids but be aware of the signs of dehydration — dry mouth, dark urine, headaches, you know the drill. But don’t drink too much or you will flood your kidneys which in turn will produce a greater output, leaving you at risks of leaks!

Download CliniMed’s Hydration guide for people with an ostomy to help you understand your hydration needs.

Watch the Output

Keep an eye on your stoma output. If it changes suddenly — more or less than usual, a different colour, or a different odour — it might be your body waving a little red flag. It could be nothing but, it could be something — best get it checked out. I do an input/output diary on those days that I am worried about fluid intake. So, write down everything you drink and then measure your pee when it comes out.

Skin Care Matters

Stoma or not, skin health is crucial. Keep the area clean and dry and use barrier films if needed to prevent irritation. No one needs a grumpy stoma on top of everything else!

Get Regular Check-Ups

Just because you’ve had your bladder whipped out doesn’t mean you get to skip the GP. Regular check-ups are key to making sure everything is working as it should. Remember your Stoma Care Nurses are happy to see you and to help you!

The Bottom Line

Keep Talking, Keep Checking, Keep Living and Loving life!

So, there we have it. Bladder cancer signs, bladder health tips, and a bit of Anita’s wisdom for my stoma warriors. It isn’t the most glamorous topic but it’s one that can save lives. Keep an eye on those symptoms, make sensible choices (with a bit of cake on the side, naturally), and don’t be shy about getting things checked out.

Life’s too short to fear your own pee or your stoma bag.

It’s your health — take charge of it! Here’s to healthy bladders, happy stomas, and maybe a cheeky glass of wine (or two) while we’re at it.

Cheers, you lovely lot!