Kidney cancer: Prolonged constipation and other symptoms you need to know

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma (RCC), is a disease characterised by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells around the bean-shaped organs thereby resulting in the formation of a tumour that can obstruct normal functions of the organ.
Kidney cancer Prolonged constipation and other symptoms you need to know
New Delhi: In today’s world, it is almost impossible to not include processed foods in the diet – from grains to pulses and even meat, everything is processed in some way or the other. These foods go through several procedures before appearing on the platter and in the process are stripped of their nutritional value. As a result, one is deprived of the nutrients and benefits and what may happen alternatively is a heightened risk of diseases or digestive distress at the least – constipation being the first one. But what if we told you that in extreme cases, the inability to take a proper bowel movement for over three days in a row could be indicative of kidney cancer?
In a shocking case, 11-year-old Ellie Miller who is currently undergoing chemotherapy developed a strange swelling in her stomach when she was four. For a long time, doctors repeatedly assured her mother that it was nothing more than constipation until a school nurse suspected something weird when the girl was eight. It was nephroblastoma, a kidney cancer, which had spread to organs like the lungs despite multiple operations.
Ellie Miller’s case raised concerns about kidney cancer and the possible silent symptoms of the deadly condition.
What is kidney cancer?
Kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma (RCC), is a disease characterised by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells around the bean-shaped organs thereby resulting in the formation of a tumour which can obstruct normal functions of the organ.
Located at the back of the rib cage, the kidneys are responsible for the following functions:
  1. Creating urine
  2. Filtering waste from the blood
  3. Creating red blood cells
  4. Controlling blood pressure
Although the body can function normally with just one kidney, a tumour growing within or around them could disrupt normal functions. Talk of the symptoms, this condition often manifests in the urine or lower back. Read on to know the warning signs of kidney cancer
  1. Blood in the urine
  2. Lower back pain
  3. Anaemia
  4. Fever
  5. Fatigue
  6. Unexplained loss of appetite
  7. Weight loss
  8. A lump in the abdomen
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.
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