Detecting cancer at an early stage is very important for treatment success. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of cancer, but here are some general signs that cancer is growing in your body.
Unexplained weight loss: Significant and unintentional weight loss without changes in diet or exercise can be a symptom of several types of cancer.
Fatigue and weakness: Persistent fatigue or weakness that doesn’t go away with rest can be a sign of cancer or other health problems.
Skin changes: Changes in moles, new skin growth, darkening, yellowing, or redness of the skin can indicate skin cancer.
Persistent cough and hoarseness: Chronic cough, hoarseness, and loss of voice may be symptoms of lung or throat cancer.
Difficulty swallowing: Difficulty and pain in swallowing is called pharyngeal insufficiency and can indicate cancer of the esophagus or throat.
Bowel changes: Persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, blood in the stool, or pencil-thin stools, may be associated with colon cancer.
Changes in urine: Blood in the urine, frequent urination, pain during urination, and other changes in the urine can be symptoms of bladder or kidney cancer.
Breast changes: New breast lumps, nipple changes, and skin changes may indicate breast cancer.
Pain: Unexplained, persistent pain, especially if it does not improve with treatment, can be a symptom of various cancers.
Changes in menstrual cycle: Abnormal bleeding between periods, heavy periods, or postmenopausal bleeding may be associated with reproductive system cancer.
Difficulty breathing: Shortness of breath, shortness of breath, or chest pain can be symptoms of lung or heart problems, such as lung cancer.
Difficulty swallowing or feeling full: Difficulty swallowing or feeling full quickly after eating can be associated with stomach or ovarian cancer.
Lumps or lumps: Unexplained lumps or lumps should be checked for new ones in any part of the body, such as the breast, testicles, or lymph nodes.
Chronic heartburn: Persistent and severe heartburn, especially if it doesn’t respond to treatment, may be a sign of esophageal cancer.
Oral changes: White or red patches in the mouth, bleeding gums, or sores that won’t heal can be associated with oral cancer.
Bone pain: Unexplained bone pain or fractures may be due to bone cancer or cancer that has spread to the bone.
Severe cough: A persistent cough that does not improve may be a sign of lung cancer or other respiratory diseases.
Vision changes: Blurred vision, floaters, or other vision changes may indicate eye cancer or other medical problems.
Neurological symptoms: Sudden neurological symptoms such as headache, seizures, dizziness, and changes in motor coordination should be evaluated.
Unexplained Swelling: Any part of the body should be checked for unexplained swelling.
It is important to remember that these symptoms can be caused by various conditions, and the presence of one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have cancer. However, if you experience persistent or unusual symptoms, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation. Early detection and prompt medical care are key factors in improving cancer outcomes. Regular health checkups and tests based on age and risk factors can help detect potential problems early.