Recognizing The Signs: 12 Symptoms Of Cancer To Look Out For

Cancer is a frightening word that nobody wants to hear. While it’s important to remember that not all symptoms indicate cancer, it’s crucial to be aware of what signs to look for. The earlier cancer is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment.

In this blog post, we’ll outline 12 common symptoms of cancer that you should be aware of. From unexplained weight loss to persistent coughing and changes in bowel habits, we’ll cover everything you need to know about these potential warning signs. Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to your health, so let’s take a closer look at the symptoms of cancer and what they mean.

As Women our bodies are constantly changing and half the time we are unaware of these changes. However, our health is in our hands and there are some symptoms that we should clearly not ignore.

The key is understand our body and be vigilant about the changes that may occur and treat them on time.

Symptoms Of Cancer

12 Signs that you should look out for:-

• Breast Changes – Anything lumpy in your breast may not be a sign of cancer, however not getting it checked is also foolish.
• Skin Changes – A change in the size, shape, or color of a mole or other spot is a common sign of skin cancer. See your doctor for a thorough exam and perhaps a biopsy.  
• Blood in Your Pee or Stool – Talk to your doctor if you’re bleeding from a part of your body that normally doesn’t, especially if the bleeding lasts more than a day or two.
• Changes in Lymph Nodes – Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands around the body. Most changes in them come from common infections. But some cancers, including leukaemia and lymphoma, can also cause lymph nodes to swell.
• Discharge – A foul or smelly vaginal discharge could be a symptom of cervical cancer. The discharge may contain blood and may occur between periods or after menopause. It’s best not to self-treat a discharge with over-the-counter medications and an exam should be conducted as soon as possible.
• Bloating – Feeling fuller than usual, a change in the bowel or bladder habits such as urinating more frequently, lower back pain or pelvic pain all signs point towards cancer. It’s not unusual to have one or two of these symptoms occasionally, particularly after a big meal. But if you have two or more symptoms daily for more than 2 weeks, call your doctor.

• Unexplained Weight Gain Or Weight Loss – If you put on a kg or two or loose it often it is not a cause of concern. However, more than that too drastically loose or gain could be scary. Get a check-up done.
• Any persistent cough –  one that lasts more than 2 or 3 weeks and is not due to an allergy or upper respiratory infection, or one that produces blood — needs to be checked by your doctor.
• Smoking – If your cough may be caused by smoking or being exposed to second hand smoke, get it checked out. “Smoking is the number one cancer killer in women.
• Fatigue – The American Cancer Society defines fatigue as “extreme tiredness that does not get better with rest.” So if you’re often fatigued, see your doctor. Leukemia, colon, or stomach cancer – which can cause blood loss which can result in fatigue. Fatigue can be a serious problem and should not be ignored.
• Trouble Swallowing – Occasional trouble swallowing is nothing to worry about. But when it happens often, especially with vomiting or weight loss, your doctor may want to check you for throat or stomach cancer. 
• Pain – Cancer doesn’t cause most aches. But ongoing pain can signal bone, brain, or other cancers. Ask your doctor about any unexplained aches that last a month or longer.

Keep a look-out for the above signs and go for regular check-ups. Do not ignore any changes in your body. The changes which may seem normal to you could actually be a prelude to cancer affecting your body.

Recognizing the symptoms of cancer can be crucial in early detection and treatment. While some of the symptoms listed in this blog may be common, it’s important to pay attention to any persistent changes in your body. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms or have any concerns, it’s best to consult with a medical professional as soon as possible. Remember, early detection is key in the fight against cancer. If you found this blog helpful or have additional insights to share, let us know in the comments section below.

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