Can Colon Cancer Cause Kidney Failure and Frequent Urination? 

If you think about colon cancer, bowel issues are generally the first thing that springs to mind. Some possible signs include a change in bowel habits, blood in the stool, stomach pain, or weight loss. But some people at times wonder about changes that don’t appear to be related. Frequent urination is one of these. Another is kidney problems. 

But, does colon cancer result in kidney failure or make one urinate more often? It can occur, but it is not an early or common sign of the disease. 

When Will Kidney Failure Due to Colon Cancer Develop? 

It can happen in some circumstances. This is more likely if the cancer has progressed. The main functions of your kidneys are to remove waste products and excess water from the blood. They produce urine, which goes through two small tubes known as ureters into the bladder. 

One of these tubes can be compressed if there is abdominal or pelvic spread of colon cancer and the development of a tumour. This makes the flow of urine from the kidney to the bladder more difficult. In some cases, the flow can be totally obstructed. 

The backup of urine may cause the affected kidney to become swollen. This condition is known as hydronephrosis. The kidney may, over time, lose some function if blocked for a long period of time. Serious kidney problems can be caused by a severe obstruction, particularly if it affects both kidneys. 

The kidneys can sometimes also be adversely affected by treatment. Some cancer medications can have an effect on the kidneys. One reason your doctor might regularly test the function of your kidneys while you’re undergoing cancer treatment is because of this. 

What About Frequent Urination? 

Having the urge to urinate frequently doesn’t necessarily indicate the development of colon cancer. Indeed, there are numerous other more common reasons. 

It can be caused by a UTI (urinary tract infection). Diabetes, some bladder ailments, excessive fluid intake, caffeine, and medications are also possible causes of frequent urination. 

Occasionally, urination can be affected by colon cancer, though. The colon is in close proximity to other abdominal and pelvic organs. When a tumour reaches a certain size, it might squeeze the bladder or parts of the urinary system. Then the individual may find that they feel the need to urinate more frequently or that they have trouble completely emptying their bladder. 

Treatment of cancer can also make a difference. For instance, if radiation is administered to the pelvic area, it can irritate the bladder. This may result in urgency or a feeling that you need to go more often. 

What Urinary Symptoms Should You Watch For? 

When a person urinates frequently for just one day, it typically isn’t a reason for concern. A change that is occurring repeatedly, however, is worthy of attention. 

Keep an eye out for burning or pain during urination; blood in the urine; trouble with urination; pain in the lower back or side; swelling; or a change in the quantity of urine produced. 

If only a small amount of urine comes out each time, it can also indicate inadequate emptying of the bladder. 

Many things can cause these symptoms, and most of them are not due to colon cancer. Even so, it’s better to have any ongoing or unusual change investigated rather than figuring out why on your own. 

Reopine: Seek Specialist Advice for Cancer and Other Health Concerns 

Reopine provides online consultations with specialist doctors. If you are dealing with colon cancer, concerns about your kidneys, or changes in your urine that you can’t explain, a specialist can take time to review your situation and help you understand what steps you can take next. 

Final Thoughts 

Colon cancer is not a common cause of frequent urination or kidney failure. However, sometimes the urinary system can be compressed by advanced disease, which can impair the proper drainage of urine. Treatment may also affect the bladder or kidneys in some people. 

Frequent urination often has a much simpler cause. Seeing a doctor is important if it persists or comes with pain or blood, swelling, bowel changes, or other abnormal symptoms.