Is This Normal? What Can I Do To Get Back To The Way I Used To Be?
The diagnosis of bladder cancer comes as a shock to most individuals. In most individuals, the only symptom/sign of bladder cancer is blood in the urine. Those individuals with gross hematuria (bright red blood in the urine) are usually aware that they need to be evaluated by a physician. Those with microscopic hematuria, however, usually have no real warning that anything is going on. In most cases of bladder cancer, particularly the lower-stage bladder cancers, the individual will feel fine and typically will have no symptoms. Sometimes they will have frequency of urination, but many patients disregard what they interpret as just bothersome symptoms.
Thus, when faced with the shock of being diagnosed with bladder cancer, common reactions are fear, anger, confusion, and depression. It is not unusual to retreat initially from life as you absorb the reality of the situation and begin to gather information and start the decision-making process. Many patients will have feelings of failure or guilt, withdraw socially, feel that they are being punished, lose interest in activities that used to bring them pleasure, or find that they are cry-ing a lot. Some will have overwhelming feelings of doom or helplessness and may even think about suicide. These can all be signs of serious depression, and you should discuss this with your doctor immediately. Sometimes, when faced with such potentially over-whelming situations, you may need some assistance to help you gain control of your life again and make the decisions that you will need to make regarding your treatment. Never be afraid to ask for help.