Information on Dying of Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer occurs when a cancerous tumor grows within the bladder, causing local damage and problems in remote organs upon metastasis. Quality end-of-life care and support from loved ones can help ease the difficult physical and emotional symptoms experienced by patients dying of bladder cancer.
Prevalence
According to the American Cancer Society, the lifetime risk of dying from bladder cancer among American males is 1 in 120 while roughly 1 in 303 American females will die from the disease.
Signs and Symptoms
Patients dying of bladder cancer may experience localized symptoms in the bladder itself as well as other sites to which the cancer has spread. According to Web MD, symptoms of advanced bladder cancer include anemia, weight loss, lower leg swelling and pain in the pelvis, kidneys or rectal area.
Psychological Issues
According to Drug Information Online, psychological signs that death is approaching may include delusions, hallucinations or anxiety. Additional symptoms such as changes in mood and behavior or loss of consciousness are also common.
Treatment
Treatment for patients dying of bladder cancer generally involves hospitalization or in-home hospice care. The main goal of end-of-life care is to keep the patient comfortable by providing medications for pain and other symptoms while offering information and support for loved ones.
Considerations
According to the National Cancer Institute, the process of dying is different for everyone, so it may be difficult to predict which physical and emotional symptoms a patient will experience, how long the process will take and other details. Caregivers can provide support by listening to the patient's fears and respecting their needs for privacy and dignity.
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