Kidney Cancer: Care Instructions

Overview

Kidney cancer is when abnormal cells grow out of control in one or both of the kidneys. Your doctor will do tests to see if the cancer is in the kidney only or has spread to other parts of the body. Then you and your doctor can decide on treatment.

Most people who have kidney cancer have surgery to remove the cancer and all or part of the kidney. Your treatment options will depend on the size of the tumor and whether it has spread.

• For very small tumors, active surveillance may be an option. This means you will have tests on a regular basis and only have treatment if the cancer grows.

• Small tumors may be treated with heat or cold to destroy the cancer cells.

• Cancer that has spread to other parts of the body may be treated with radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy (with or without surgery).

Many people still have the use of one or both kidneys after treatment for early kidney cancer. If you do not have a working kidney after treatment, you will need to have your blood cleaned by a machine (dialysis) or have a kidney transplant. Being treated for cancer can weaken your body, and you may feel very tired. Home treatment can help you feel better.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine. You may get medicine for nausea and vomiting if you have these side effects.

• Follow your doctor's instructions to relieve pain. Pain from cancer and surgery can almost always be controlled. Use pain medicine when you first notice pain, before it becomes severe.

• Eat healthy food. If you do not feel like eating, try to eat food that has protein and extra calories to keep up your strength and prevent weight loss. Drink liquid meal replacements for extra calories and protein. Try to eat your main meal early. Your doctor also may recommend a special diet.

• Get some physical activity every day, but do not get too tired. Keep doing the hobbies you enjoy as your energy allows.

• Get enough sleep. Try using a sleep mask and earplugs at night, and keep your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet.

• Do not smoke. Smoking can make kidney cancer worse. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.

• Take steps to control your stress and workload. Learn relaxation techniques.

  • Share your feelings. Stress and tension affect our emotions. By expressing your feelings to others, you may be able to understand and cope with them.

  • Consider joining a support group. Talking about a problem with your spouse, a good friend, or other people with similar problems is a good way to reduce tension and stress.

  • Express yourself through art. Try writing, crafts, dance, or art to relieve stress. Some dance, writing, or art groups may be available just for people who have cancer.

  • Be kind to your body and mind. Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and taking time to do things you enjoy can contribute to an overall feeling of balance in your life and help reduce stress.

  • Get help if you need it. Discuss your concerns with your doctor or counselor.

• If you are vomiting or have diarrhea:

  • Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Choose water and other clear liquids. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.

  • When you are able to eat, try clear soups, mild foods, and liquids until all symptoms are gone for 12 to 48 hours. Other good choices include dry toast, crackers, cooked cereal, and gelatin dessert, such as Jell-O.

• If you have not already done so, prepare a list of advance directives. Advance directives are instructions to your doctor and family members about what kind of care you want if you become unable to speak or express yourself.

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

Current as of: October 25, 2023

Content Version: 14.0

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.