Cancer can affect any part of your body. Cancer occurs when uncontrolled abnormal cells grow in the body. Cancer comes in many forms, with different symptoms.
Cancer symptoms vary according to the type, location, and stage of the cancer. Some cancers do not show symptoms until the disease is very advanced.
It is important to know the symptoms and to stay on top of routine screenings. If you are concerned, see your doctor.
Skin Changes
Melanoma is the most deadly type of skin cancer . You can use “ABCDE” to monitor changes in moles and other skin marks:
- Asymmetry : One half is not the same shape as the other.
- Border : The edges of the border are irregular, ragged, blurred or notched.
- Color : The color may not be the same on all sides and can include brown, black, pink, white or blue patches.
- Dimension : The spot is bigger than 1/4 inch in diameter (the size of an eraser or pen).
- The mole changes in size, color, or shape
Other symptoms of skin cancer include:
- abnormal rash
- wart-like growths
- Open sores that do not heal
- Any abnormal growth or spot on your skin
- Changes to existing moles
Persistent cough
Coughing can be a sign that lung cancer is present. If you have a persistent cough (for several weeks or months), if it is accompanied by any other symptoms or if the cough gets worse with time, then you should consult a doctor.
There are other warning signs that can accompany a persistent, dry cough.
- a hoarse voice
- wheezing
- chest pain
- Shortness of Breath
- Blood in spit, phlegm or spit
Changes in Breast or Testicle
Check your breasts and testicles regularly for any changes. Even though most lumps are benign (noncancerous), you should always get them checked to make sure. These lumps may be tender or painless. Breast cancer can also cause symptoms like:
- nipple discharge or pain
- Unusual changes in the size, shape or appearance of breast
- Changes to the skin of the breast such as dimpling
- Any new lump in the armpit
- Swelling of the breast in its entirety or in part
- Pain in the breast that doesn’t go away
- nipple discharge
Unexpected Weight Loss
Cancer cells consume energy and resources normally used by healthy cells. They can also release substances which alter the way in which the body processes food. It can cause weight loss even when you eat more or the same.
Additional symptoms of weight loss may include:
- a reduction in appetite
- fatigue
- nausea or vomiting
- diarrhea or constipation
- abdominal pain
- indigestion
- bloating
Persistent Mysterious Pain
Cancer can be diagnosed if persistent pain is not caused by an injury or another condition. It is particularly true if pain persists or worsens with time, or if it is accompanied by symptoms such as a fever or weight loss.
See a doctor if you experience any pain that is not explained and persists over a period of time. They can help determine the cause.
Unexpected Bleeding
Unexpected bleeding may be an indication of cancer. It can appear as blood in your urine, stool or spit. It can also present as vaginal bleeds between periods or following menopause.
Be aware of any sores which do not heal. This can be an indication that there is something wrong.
Trouble emptying the Bladder or Bowel
It could be an indication of cancer in your digestive or urinary system if you are having difficulty urinating. These changes may also be accompanied by:
- Blood in the urine or stool
- diarrhea or constipation
- abdominal pain
- indigestion
- bloating
It is important to pay attention to any changes you notice in your body. The signs and symptoms listed above do not mean you have cancer. However, if you experience any of these, you should consult a physician to determine the cause.
It is important to detect cancer early. If you experience any abnormal symptoms, do not hesitate. Speak to your doctor and ask about the screenings that you require, as well as what symptoms you may be experiencing.
