How to Spot Cancer Early – Beware of the Warning Signs [Part 1]

Cancer is a group of diseases that can cause almost any signs or symptoms. What are the cancer warning signs? Its manifestations depend on cancer site, size and extent of damage. Sometimes, the cancer will not cause any discomfort until it has grown large enough to press on nearby nerves or organs. If the cancer has spread, symptoms may appear at other parts of the body.

The signs and symptoms may or may not be specific to the site affected. Often, cancer comes with generalised symptoms that are overlooked as other more benign conditions. Conversely being observant for the early cancer warning signs could significantly improve your chances to beat cancer. As a rule of thumb, if any of these symptoms persist or worsen, consult a doctor.

Spot these Early Cancer Warning Signs

• Unexplained weight loss

Unexplained weight loss involves loss of weight without any apparent reason. Losing 5 kg or more without a change in diet or exercise habits could be alarming. Although most unintended weight loss are resulted from other reasons, such as stress or hyperthyroidism, it can be a sign of cancer. Cancers that are often associated with weight loss are cancers of the pancreas, stomach, esophagus or lungs.

• Fever

People with cancer often have fever, especially if the immune system is compromised due to the cancer itself or its treatment. Fever is also common when the cancer has spread to other sites. Sometimes, fever may be an early sign of blood cancers, such as leukemia or lymphoma.

• Fatigue

Cancer can show as extreme tiredness that does not get better with rest. It may be observed in early stages of certain cancers, like leukemia. Besides that, some colon or stomach cancers can cause blood loss in stool. The depleting iron stores can lead to anemia, which eventually result in fatigue.

• Pain

Most cancers do not cause aches. It may be an early symptom for cancers of the bone or testicle. Persistent headache that cannot be relieved with treatment may be indicative of a brain tumour; meanwhile, back pain may accompany cancer of the colon, rectum or ovary. Usually, pain due to cancer lasting more than a month means the cancer has spread to other areas.

• Skin changes

Any wart, mole or freckle that changes colour, size or shape may be indicative of skin cancer. These observable changes should prompt for immediate medical advice. On top of skin cancer, skin changes can also occur with other cancers. These include hyperpigmentation, jaundice, reddened skin, itching and excessive hair growth.

• Swollen lymph nodes

Lymph nodes are part of the body’s immune system. Usually, the lymph nodes become swollen when the body fights infection. Blood cancers, such as lymphoma or leukemia, cause lymph nodes to swell. Another scenario that may result in swollen lymph node is the infiltration of malignant cells brought to the nodes from its original site. In rare cases, breast cancer or lymphoma may cause lymph nodes in the armpit to swell.

• Trouble swallowing

Persistent indigestion or difficulty swallowing may be signs of cancer of the esophagus, stomach or throat. Sometimes, vomiting or weight loss are observed along with trouble swallowing.

• Mouth sores

Chronic smokers may be at higher risk for leukoplakia. This pre-cancerous condition is observed as white patches inside the mouth or white spots on the tongue. If left untreated, it can evolve into oral cancer. Hence, any long-lasting mouth changes should be checked by a doctor or dentist.

Conclusion

Cancer may or may not lead to signs and symptoms. However, if any discomfort lasting more than a month is noticed, consult a doctor immediately regardless of how petty it may seem.

Further reading: How to Spot Cancer Early – Identify the Warning Signs [Part 2]

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Tags

• Cancer
• cancer screening