Approved By Dr. Ravi Wategaonkar, Sr. Medical Oncologist , Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital
With over 100 types of cancers, how can one really tell if they have cancer? People usually know common cancers like breast, lung, and prostate cancer, but what about the others?
Cancer can spread fast to other parts of the body through the blood or lymphatic system, and before you know it, it is too late.
Regardless of age or health, it’s crucial to be aware of potential cancer signs.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 commonly overlooked symptoms of cancer.
Symptoms of Cancer
Here are some common early signs and symptoms of cancer in both men and women:
1. Pain that lasts
Cancers like bone cancer can cause extreme pain in different parts of the body. Persistent pain anywhere in the body with no clear cause is often considered an early sign of cancer.
2. Fatigue
Feeling tired all the time, even after rest, could be a sign of cancer. People with leukaemia, a type of blood cancer, often experience extreme tiredness.
3. Unexplained Weight Loss
About half of cancer patients lose weight without trying. And it’s often one of the first signs they notice.
4. Changes in the Skin
Strange moles, bumps, or marks on your skin should be checked by a doctor. These could be signs of skin cancer. Other cancers can also show signs on your skin, like dark spots, yellowing, redness, itching, more hair growth, or a rash. These might point to cancers like liver, kidney, ovarian, or lymphoma.
5. Frequent Fevers or Infection
A high fever that lasts more than 3 days or one infection after the other indicates an immune system that’s been affected by leukaemia or lymphoma (Hodgkin’s or non-Hodgkin’s).
6. Changes in Bathroom Habits
Changes in bathroom habits can indicate colon, prostate, or bladder cancer. If you are having persistent constipation or diarrhoea, blood in your stool, increased urination, and blood in your urine, it’s important to visit a medical oncology hospital and see an oncologist.
7. Sores
If you have sores that bleed or don’t go away, you should visit a doctor right away. These might be signs of skin cancer.
8. Vaginal Bleeding or Discharge
If you experience vaginal bleeding or discharge between periods or after menopause, see a doctor. Endometrial cancer (which starts in the lining of the uterus) can cause unexpected bleeding.
9. Changes in Appetite
Ovarian cancer might lead to appetite changes. You might feel full or have a declining interest in eating. Some cancers can also cause indigestion, difficulty swallowing, or nausea. If you’ve had trouble eating for more than two weeks, talk to your doctor.
10. Unusual Lumps or Masses
Any new lump or mass that doesn’t go away should be checked by a doctor. Lymph nodes are small glands located in your armpits, groin, and neck. They help produce white blood cells to fight infections. It’s common for lymph nodes to swell when you have a cold. However, if the swelling doesn’t go down after you feel better, it’s important to contact your doctor.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice any possible cancer symptoms, tell your doctor. They may suggest tests to find out if cancer or another health problem is causing your symptoms.
Doctors might use blood tests, CT scans, or biopsies (taking a sample of tissue to look at under a microscope) to check for cancer.
Even if you don’t have symptoms, it’s important to have cancer screening tests. Especially women, as they are more susceptible to breast and ovarian cancers that don’t always show symptoms. These screenings can help find cancer early, giving you a better chance of successful treatment.
If you live in Pune or nearby, you can schedule a Well Women Check-up at Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital, one of the best cancer hospitals in Pune. This check-up includes 12 tests, such as a Haemogram, X-ray, and USG, which can help detect common cancers like breast and ovarian cancer, along with other health issues. They also have a dedicated team of surgical and medical oncologists and support staff to help you tackle cancer.