Many times, we consider aches, lumps, or sudden change in bowel movements to be small issues that don’t even deserve attention. Researchers have demonstrated that quite a few of these apparently harmless signs might actually be the first warning sign of cancer. Listed below are a few warning signs that you should consider seriously and visit an oncologist.
Weight Loss
Many people suffering from cancer lose weight abruptly. If you happen to lose weight for no particular reason, it’s known as unexplained weight loss. A loss of 10+ pounds might be an early indication of cancer and you must see an oncologist.
Fever
This is extremely predominant among cancer patients, but it happens more if cancer spreads from the starting point. Nearly every person with cancer will experience a fever at some point, especially if it affects your immune system.
Fatigue
Fatigue refers to acute tiredness that won’t get better even if you rest. This might be a vital warning as cancer grows. However, it may also happen early in certain cancers, such as leukemia.
Pain
Pain can be an initial symptom of certain cancers, such as bone cancers. For example, a headache that persists or does not get better despite treatment might be an indication of a brain tumor. Similarly, back pain might be an indication of colon, rectum, or ovarian cancer.
Skin Changes
Apart from skin cancer, certain other types of cancers can result in visible skin changes. Such signs or symptoms include darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation), yellowing of the skin and/or eyes (jaundice), reddening of the skin (erythema), itchy skin (pruritus) and excess growth of body hair.
Persistent Sore
Skin cancers might bleed and appear like sores that can’t be healed. A nagging sore in your mouth might be a sign of oral cancer. This must be correctly dealt with immediately, particularly in case of regular smokers or those who consume a lot of alcohol. If there is a sore on your penis or vagina, it may either be a sign of an infection or even cancer and must be examined by an oncologist.
Indigestion or Swallowing Problem
Indigestion or trouble in swallowing over a long period of time might be a sign of oesophagus, stomach, or pharynx cancer. However, similar to most symptoms that we have enlisted, they are likely to be caused due to other reasons as well.
Change in a Wart or Mole
If you have any wart, mole, or even a freckle that has recently changed colour, size, shape or has lost its sharp border, it must be examined by a medical professional right away. If you have any other changes in your skin, remember to report it as well. Such a change could be something called melanoma, which, upon early detection, can be successfully treated.
Nagging Cough
If you suffer from a cough that does not go away, it might be an indication of lung cancer. On the other hand, hoarseness might be an indication of larynx or thyroid gland cancer.
Conclusion
Any of the above symptoms not explained by the regular examination or tests by your family doctor and is continuing needs to be investigated. This list of symptoms is fairly general, but if any of these persists for long, it’s high time that you consult an oncologist.
