CAUTION CANCER

Common Signs and Symptoms for Early Detection of Cancer

One of the scariest things about cancer is that it can often go undetected. So it’s essential to be aware of the common signs and symptoms for the early detection of cancer. By knowing what to look for, you can get treatment early on and increase your chances of survival. 

This blog post will discuss some of the most common signs and symptoms for early detection of cancer. So stay safe and be vigilant!

Some common signs and symptoms of cancer include:

Unexplained weight loss

Unexplained weight loss is one of the earliest signs of cancer, and it can be a symptom of several different types of cancer. If you lose more than 5% of your body weight in six months without changing your diet or increasing your activity level, it’s worth talking to your doctor. Cancer cells use up more energy than healthy cells, so they can cause you to lose weight even if you’re eating the same amount of food.

Fatigue

It’s one of the most common symptoms of cancer. We’re not talking about a normal type of tiredness here but the extreme tiredness that doesn’t go away. If changing your activity level or getting more sleep doesn’t make you better, consult your doctor.

Loss of appetite: 

One of the many warning signs of cancer is appetite loss. Though there are many other potential causes of this symptom, it is crucial to be aware that it could be an early sign of the disease. When cancerous cells grow in the body, they can cause several changes that lead to appetite loss. For example, they can release substances that affect the way the brain perceives hunger, or they can cause inflammation that makes eating painful. In some cases, tumours can also block the digestive tract, making it difficult to absorb nutrients from food. Therefore, if you are experiencing appetite loss, it is essential to speak to a doctor to identify and treat any underlying causes.

Persistent pain

Cancer can also cause less obvious symptoms, including persistent pain. While some pain is normal and is not a cause for concern, unexplained or severe pain that does not go away may be an early sign of cancer. Cancerous cells can cause inflammation and pressure on nerves, leading to pain. The location of the pain may vary depending on the type of cancer, but it is often felt in the back, neck, or ribs. If you are experiencing persistent pain, it is important to see a doctor for a diagnosis. 

Changes in bowel or bladder habits

If you notice any changes in your bathroom habits, it’s essential to see a doctor. In many cases, these changes can be benign and easily treated. However, if left untreated, cancer can quickly spread and become life-threatening.

Unusual bleeding or discharge:

While bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract or urinary system can have many potential causes, it can also be an early sign of cancer. Bleeding is often one of the first symptoms that lead people to seek medical attention for cancer. Blood in the stool or urine can be a sign of several types of cancer, including colorectal cancer, bladder cancer, and kidney cancer, but it could also be due to an infection, kidney stones, or kidney disease. While some causes of bleeding are benign, it is essential to see a doctor if you experience any rectal bleeding or blood in your urine, as these could be warning signs of a more serious condition. 

Thickening or lump in the breast or elsewhere on the body:

The individual may feel this as a hard mass distinctly different from the surrounding tissue. It is essential to see a doctor to check for any suspicious lumps, as some benign conditions can cause similar symptoms. However, a cancerous lump is usually firm, irregularly shaped, and does not move when pressed. If you notice any changes in your body that concern you, don’t delay seeking medical attention.

Fever that doesn’t go away

One of the most important signs to be aware of is a fever that doesn’t go away. If you have a fever that lasts for more than a few days, it could be an early sign of cancer. Of course, there are many other possible causes of persistent fever, but some cancers, including lymphoma, leukemia, and kidney and liver cancers, can also make that happen. So it’s essential to see your doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Indigestion or difficulty swallowing

While several factors can cause indigestion and difficulty swallowing, they can also be early signs of cancerous tumors in the esophagus or stomach. So if you experience either of these problems regularly, it’s essential to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Persistent cough or hoarseness

A cough that doesn’t go away may be an early sign of cancer. Patients with lung cancer were more likely to have a persistent cough than those without the disease. Better to see a doctor if you have a cough that does not go away within a few weeks.

Skin changes

One early sign of skin cancer is a change in the size, shape, or color of a mole. If you have a mole that starts to bleed or itch, this can also signify that something is wrong. Other skin changes that can signal cancer include new growths on the skin, sores that don’t heal, and changes in the texture of the skin. 

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to see a doctor right away. Early detection is key to survival with cancer, so don’t delay seeking medical attention. Remember, knowledge is power!

Stay tuned for more informative blog posts from Onco Views. Thanks for reading 😊