May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z Cancer GI and Urinary symptoms in older patient
GI and Urinary symptoms in older patient |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: Hello, I am worried sick about my 70 year old mother. For the past 6-8 months she has been having flank and groin pain. Dull in nature (she says it feels tender). Her GP ordered her an ultrasound and the report said "?cyst". He has referred her to a renal specialist who is now ordering a CT. Needless to say we are quite anxious. She also has been having GI symptoms of the past year of loose bowel movements with cramping waking her up sometimes at night. She had a barium enema which revealed mild diverticulosis However, she is scared she has cancer of some kind. Any advice or opinion would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much Dear Wendy: A Kidney cyst is a fluid filled pouch that typically don't cause signs or symptoms, however of the cyst grows large enough, it may cause pain, fever and discomfort. Since the cyst is already causing symptoms, I am sure that his physician would suggest a procedure to drain or remove the cyst; this could wait if the kidney function is not compromised. On the other hand, a diagnosis of diverticulitis has been made which are also pouches of the intestine caused by an increase in the pressure within, commonly due to constipation. Let me reassure you that it is very unlikely that a diverticuli turn into cancer, I would suggest adding fiber to the diet and eliminating any foods that cause gas and increase the fluid intake. I wish her the best.
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| Last Updated ( Wednesday, 25 May 2011 ) |
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