The American Cancer Society says the body often gives signs and symptoms that something is not working properly when cancer is present. It’s important to not self-diagnose and draw conclusions, nonetheless, it is worth listening and paying attention to changes in the body. What can follow are tests to determine the cause for unexplained aches and pains. The National Institutes of Health defines cancer “some of the body’s cells begin to divide without stopping and spread into surrounding tissues.” The NIH says, “Unlike normal cells, cancer cells are less specialized than normal cells. That is, whereas normal cells mature into very distinct cell types with specific functions, cancer cells do not. This is one reason that, unlike normal cells, cancer cells continue to divide without stopping.” As the cancer grows or spreads, it can push on the nerves, blood vessels, and close organs, thus, giving off symptoms and signs. Here are some things to keep an eye out for.A cough that comes suddenly and goes from what appears to be a cold or even allergies to chronic.
Lumps in the breasts, lymph nodes, testicles, and even under soft tissues are signs of both early and advanced cancer. It is important to note that not all breast cancers appear as lumps.
Weight loss occurs when our regular diets are altered or we increase our physical activity. But losing weight rapidly is something that should not be taken lightly. Even if it’s not cancer, it could signal a thyroid problem or stress, but it’s better to rule out cancer early on.
Blood in the stool accompanied with black or dark stool are often signs of colon or rectal cancer. Cervical cancer can cause vaginal bleeding. Furthermore, coughing up blood may be a sign of lung cancer. Bleeding can occur early in the early as well as advanced stages of cancer.
Be aware of any changes in the size and color of the stool as it may be a sign of colon cancer. Furthermore, feeling pain and discomfort while urinating or seeing blood is not normal. Don’t be embarrassed to tell your doctor of these changes.
Anemia is a low number count of red cells. This is common and can be taken care of with supplements. Nonetheless, cancers that cause blood loss will inevitably decrease the number of red cells, therefore, making it appear like it’s only anemia.
Rashes and as well as reddish, yellow, or dark patches should never be ignored. Also moles, warts, and freckles that change in color and size should always be observed.
Tiredness that doesn’t go away even if you are getting enough sleep. As the cancer grows and the body is trying to fight it off, extreme fatigue occurs. Furthermore, some cancers cause blood loss which contributes to feeling exhausted.
Blinding headaches may be a sign of a brain tumor. Unfortunately body aches from cancer are the result of the disease metastasizing where it initiated.
Lymph nodes tend to get swollen or enlarged when there is an infection or injury, making it a bit easier for doctors to know there is something wrong. Lymph nodes are present in the neck, underarms, and groin. Swollen lymph nodes appear as a side effect of measles, mumps, bacterial infections, and some STDs but tend to go away within a month or so. However, if they do not go to their regular size or decrease within four to six weeks, talk to your doctor.
Difficult swallowing, weight loss, and vomiting are symptoms you need to bring to your doctor’s attention.
Heartburn is common among men and women. Nonetheless, if you change your diet, decrease alcohol consumption, and see no results, make sure you make an appointment to discuss this with your doctor. Ovarian, stomach, and throat cancer reveals itself with heartburn symptoms.
Most people who see blood in their stool assume it is associated with hemorrhoids. Doctors will often ask for X-rays or colonoscopy to rule out cancer.
Pain above the navel may be a sign of stomach cancer.
It is important to examine your breasts regularly. Lumps tend to vary in size, but they are usually irregular in shape. Remember most lumps do not cause any pain. Also bleeding or discharge from the nipples are a sign of breast cancer.
90 percent of men with testicular cancer report not feeling pain or discomfort. Nonetheless, it is better to have a doctor check. Swollen testicles should also be brought to your doctor’s attention.
Needing to urinate more often than usual, pain while peeing, needing to go as soon as you finish, and a slow and weak stream may be the cause of bladder cancer.
A mole is usually tan, brown, or dark brown, and is pretty consistent in shape. Keep an eye out for changes in size, colour as it may be melanoma.
Headaches for someone who has a brain tumour is usually accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. This can be followed by seizures, problems with peripheral vision, weakened limbs, and difficulty speaking, and being understood.
Feeling full after a small meal as well as swelling in the belly may be caused by stomach cancer.
Most cancer patients will experience episodes of fevers. Unfortunately, it is common when the cancer has spread due to a weak immune system. Leukemia and lymphoma in its early stages does show fever as one of its symptoms.
