Like most forms of the disease, kidney cancer can occur without warning. In many cases, patients go untreated until it’s allowed to develop and spread. The staff at Medical Center Urology in High Point, NC, advises that early detection has a significant impact on treatment and recovery. Kidney stones are one of the most common signs of early kidney cancer development, which is why it’s important to bring them and other symptoms to the attention of your urology specialist.

Why Is Early Detection Important?

Studies show that kidney cancer is one of the 10 most common cancers, with over 63,000 new cases being diagnosed each year and nearly 15,000 people dying from it annually. Kidney cancer is problematic because without medical testing, it’s difficult to identify during a physical exam. Instead, it’s often the symptoms that lead to later testing. Kidney stones, blood in your urine, anemia, and chronic pain in your side are all symptoms and should be addressed by a urology specialist immediately.

How Is It Detected?

Early detection is key to treating kidney cancer. Once you’ve brought symptoms like kidney stones to a urology specialists’ attention, they can perform more extensive tests to confirm the presence of the disease. Blood and urine tests, CT scans, MRIs, PET scans, and ultrasounds are the most effective, as they provide an in-depth look at your body. Once identified through early detection, a urology specialist can advise surgery, radiation therapy, and other treatments to treat the ailment.

Early detection can be the difference between life and death, so turn to the staff at Medical Center Urology if you experience kidney stones and other symptoms. They can treat a number of urology-related issues, including prostate cancer, and are dedicated to helping patients recover successfully. Call (336) 882-0220 today to schedule an appointment with a urology specialist, and visit their website and Facebook page to learn more about their practice.