You don’t need to rely solely on regular check-ups and tests to stay clear of diseases, including cancer. It’s equally crucial to notice any unexplainable, unusual, or distinct changes in your body.
- Chest Pain or Chronic Cough
Persistent bronchitis and severe coughs can be indicative of several types of cancer, including tumors in the lungs and leukemia. Often, individuals with lung cancer report experiencing chest pain that spreads to the arm and shoulders.
- Shortness of Breath or Wheezing
Struggling to breathe is commonly one of the initial signs of lung cancer.
- Difficulty Swallowing
Trouble swallowing is frequently an early sign of lung cancer, and it can also be associated with cancers of the throat and esophagus.
- Infections or Frequent Fevers
Frequent infections and persistent fevers may signal leukemia, a cancer affecting the blood cells that impairs the body’s ability to fight infections.
- Bleeding That Doesn’t Stop or Excessive Bruising
Such symptoms can indicate abnormalities with the red blood cells and may be a sign of leukemia.
- Lumps on the Underarm, Neck, or Groin or Swollen Lymph Nodes
Changes in the lymphatic system could be an indication of cancer.
- Abdominal Weight Gain or Bloating
Many women with ovarian cancer have reported prolonged abdominal bloating.
- Weakness
General weakness might be an early sign of various cancers. Persistent, unexplained fatigue warrants a discussion with your doctor.
- Abdominal Pain or Pelvic
Pain in the abdomen or pelvic region often points to ovarian cancer, but it can also indicate leukemia.
- Inability to Eat and Feeling Full
This could be another symptom of ovarian cancer, characterized by a lack of appetite and feeling full quickly, even without eating recently.
- Sudden Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss may be an early sign of digestive system cancers, such as colon cancer, or liver cancer, which can impact the body’s waste elimination and appetite.
- Blood in Stool and Rectal Bleeding
These symptoms could indicate colorectal cancer. It’s crucial to consult a doctor if you notice blood in your stool.
- Swollen, Sore, or Red Breasts
Any unusual changes to the breasts should prompt a consultation with a doctor, as these could be signs of breast cancer.
- Stomach or Upset Stomach
Persistent stomach upset or cramps can be symptoms of colorectal cancer.
- Bleeding Between Periods or Painful or Heavy Periods
These could be signs of uterine or endometrial cancer. If your periods seem unusually heavy or painful, consider seeking a transvaginal ultrasound.
- Nipple Changes
Changes such as inverted, flattened, or sideways nipples can be symptoms of breast cancer.
- A Skin Lump That Bleeds Easily, Becomes Crusty or Doesn’t Heal
Such symptoms are characteristic of melanoma, a type of skin cancer. It’s important to monitor your body for any unusual spots or growths.
- Swelling of Facial Features
Facial swelling, redness, or puffiness can be common in lung cancer patients, where the cancer impedes normal blood flow from the face and head.
- Pain in the Lower Right Side or Back
This pain is often reported by individuals with liver cancer and can also be a symptom of breast cancer.
- Changes in Nails
Unusual changes to the nails, such as a black streak, brown spots, or pale nails, can indicate various cancers, including skin and liver cancers.