10 Bladder Cancer Symptoms
Symptom #6: Lower-extremity edema
A possible symptom of advanced bladder cancer is the swelling or accumulation of fluid in the lower extremities (i.e. feet). This can be caused by an enlarged urinary bladder that obstructs the proximal veins of the lower extremity (iliac vessels). Patients with edema of the lower extremities can report a loss of flexibility in the joints involved (ankle), tightness of shoes or clothes, weight gain, stiff or tight skin, decreased amount of eliminated urine, etc.
Importantly, lower-extremity edema is more often caused by being physically inactive, organ dysfunctions (kidney, liver, or heart problems), or by thrombosis (blood clots). Moreover, other types of cancers (plus cancer therapies) can also cause lower-extremity edema.
Advertisement