Are You Suffering from Cancer? Here are Some Signs and Symptoms of the Condition

Cancer is on the rise and is one of the leading causes of death. Some victims show no signs but a large number of who suffer from cancer show signs and symptoms. The earlier it is detected the more the chances of surviving. It is therefore very important to know the signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for. Here are some of the common ones.

Unexplained Weight Loss

This is a reduction in body weight without any explanation; you are not stressed, in a weight loss program or have a diagnosed illness. This is usually among the first signs of cancer. If you lose over 10 pounds in a month you should seriously consider talking to your gp. This sign is most commonly associated with cancer of the stomach, pancreas, lungs and esophagus.

Bleeding

Different types of cancer result in abnormal bleeding in various body parts. An example is colon cancer or rectal cancer which cause blood in stool whereas blood in urine may be due to bladder or prostate cancer. Report any bleeding in between menstrual periods, in stool, vomit, cough and urine so an investigation can be done.

Unusual lumps or swellings

These can occur in any part of the body. When due to cancer, they are made up of the cancerous cells. These swellings mainly occur in the parts affected by the tumor and may be painless or not. Report any lumps in the stomach, breast, testicles, groin, neck and armpits as well as other body parts.

Fatigue

Do you feel tired at all times even when you have not been doing anything? A tiredness feeling that does not go away even after having a good night sleep? It may be cancer and more probably leukemia.

Fever

This refers to a rise in body temperatures above the normal. It may be caused by many diseases but can be a sign of cancer as well. Almost all cancer patients will have fever at one time but this differs. Some experience fever in the early stages, others after it has spread to other organs and in others during treatment.

Pain

Cancer may also be associated with pain. Headaches may be a sign of brain tumor, localized pain in bones and testicles signs of cancers affecting the areas and back pain experienced in colon, rectum, ovary and prostate cancer.

Having any of the above symptoms or signs is not a guarantee that you have cancer. You will need to undergo a series of tests to determine if you have the condition or not. Remember that cancer is curable if detected early and so you better report any issue you have with your health to a physician who will guide you on the way forward.