7. Frequent Urination: A Sign You Shouldn’t Ignore
On the surface, frequent urination might seem like a trivial issue. Most people associate it with drinking too much water, caffeine overconsumption, or even just aging.
But in the context of Primary Peritoneal Cancer (PPC), frequent trips to the bathroom can signal something far more serious. If you find yourself constantly looking for the nearest restroom or waking up multiple times in the night to relieve yourself, and this doesn’t correlate with increased fluid intake or medications, it’s time to pay attention.
Why does PPC cause you to urinate more often? The peritoneum, where PPC originates, envelops several pelvic organs, including the bladder.
As cancerous cells develop and grow, they may exert pressure on these organs. Specifically, when a tumor presses against the bladder, it may reduce the bladder’s capacity to hold urine or stimulate nerves that give the urge to urinate. This can also occur due to fluid accumulation (ascites) in the abdomen, which puts additional pressure on the bladder.
Frequent urination can disrupt your life in many unexpected ways. Imagine being in a meeting, at a social event, or driving on a highway and suddenly feeling the urge to go. It’s not just inconvenient; it’s stressful.
Over time, you may find yourself avoiding outings, long drives, and even social interactions to avoid embarrassment. The psychological burden of this symptom should not be underestimated. People often experience heightened levels of stress and anxiety, which further exacerbates their overall health.(7)
