Identifying cancer signs
It is difficult to detect cancer in the early stages, however there are signs and symptoms that one needs to take into consideration when tackling cancer.
However, also note that some types of cancer have no specific symptoms until the very last stages, thus a routine cancer screening and risk assessment is a must.
Unexplained weight loss over a month can be one sign that may hint towards cancer. This can lead to pancreatic cancer, cancer of the stomach, cancers of the esophagus or lung cancer.
Each cancer patient will have fever at some time or other. This happens mainly when the cancer or its treatment affects the immune system.
Fatigue is another symptom of cancer which occurs along with sudden bouts of fever.
Pain occurs when the cancer has already spread in the body, so this cancer symptom comes at later stage. This can be a precursor for bone cancer or testicular cancer
One can witness changes in his/her appearance, boundary or colour in a pre-existing mole or appearance of new lesions. These skin sores do not heal and might get worse over a period of time. This is a common cancer symptom for chain smokers, alcohol addicts, tobacco chewers and pan eaters.
Constipation, diahorea frequency, bleeding in urine. Pain when passing urine, blood in the urine, or a change in bladder function.
Appearance of lenkoplakia, these are white patches found inside the mouth or on the tongue. This later develops into oral cancers.
Unusual bleeding or discharge can happen in early or advanced cancer. Blood in the sputum may be a sign of lung cancer. Blood in the stool could be a sign of colon or rectal cancer. Cancer of the cervix or the endometrium (lining of the uterus) can cause abnormal vaginal bleeding. Blood in the urine may be a sign of bladder or kidney cancer. A bloody discharge from the nipple may be a sign of breast cancer.
Lump in the breast or other parts of the body can be ignored to other health conditions, so its best to consult a doctor as and when you spot them.
Indigestion or trouble swallowing is usually associated with stomach or esophagus (food pipe) cancer.
Nagging cough or hoarseness of voice can be a sign of throat cancer, which can also develop into lung or vocal cord cancer.
Source: The Times of India
