Regular self-examination and full self-awareness are the best prevention against cancer. Cancer is a life-threatening disease with often fatal consequences. However, when detected in its early stages, cancer is normally treatable and with high survival rates.
Knowing the early signs of cancer is vital for early detection and successful treatment. Read on and learn how to recognize the warning signs that of this serious illness.
Usual Cancer Symptoms and Signs
First of all, different cancer types give different symptoms. Here, we summarize the most common ones.
- Changes in the bowel movements
Any change in your bowel movement, including diarrhea, constipation or blood in feces, could be a sign of cancer in the lower digestive tract.
- Changes in urination
Pain during urinating can sometimes indicate bladder or prostate cancer.
- Sores
Sores anywhere on your skin, including the mouth, can point to different cancer types including oral, skin and genital cancer.
- Bleeding
Bleeding such as coughing up blood, bloody discharge, or blood in the urine or stool, is a serious sign that requires immediate medical attention. A number of cancers are marked by this sign.
- Thickening or lumps
Lumps are also a sign that mustn’t be ignored. A new lump or an old lump that’s changing in size or appearance is a red alert. Several cancers are marked by tumors and growths that are visible through the skin.
- Indigestion
Indigestion is a common gastrointestinal issue which is why it’s often misdiagnosed. However, it can point to cancer in the upper digestive tract. Plus, stomach pain and difficulty swallowing are also alarming signs to see a doctor.
- Unusual hair growth
Unusual growth of hair can indicate different types of cancer. In case you see such changes on your body, see a doctor immediately.
- Skin changes
Skin changes such as darkening, yellowing or reddening are a serious warning sign that requires immediate medical attention.
- Fever
Cancers of the immune system, as well as other cancer types, are often indicated by fevers that don’t go away.
- Fatigue
Similarly to fever, fatigue – a natural immune system response, can also point to cancer, especially when it isn’t related to physical activity or sleep deprivation. Cancer-related fatigue is caused by loss of blood. Chronic fatigue is something you must promptly discuss with your doctor.
