Cancer is a complex disease that can manifest with a variety of symptoms, some of which are subtle and easily mistaken for common ailments. While many cancer symptoms overlap with less serious conditions, knowing when to seek medical advice is essential for early detection and treatment. Early intervention increases the chances of successful treatment, making it crucial to recognise when symptoms might warrant a closer look. This guide outlines cancer symptoms that should prompt you to consult a doctor and provides an overview of treatment options.
Common Cancer Symptoms to Watch For
While each type of cancer presents differently, certain symptoms are common indicators that something may be wrong. If you experience any of these symptoms for more than a couple of weeks, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Sudden, unexplained weight loss of more than 5% of your body weight in a short period (about six months) may be a sign of cancer. This is particularly true for cancers of the stomach, pancreas, oesophagus, or lungs. While weight loss can have many causes, such as stress or thyroid problems, persistent weight loss should be evaluated by a doctor.
Persistent Fatigue
Feeling tired is common, but if you’re experiencing fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest or lasts for weeks, it may indicate an underlying issue. Cancers such as leukaemia, colon cancer, or stomach cancer can cause chronic fatigue due to blood loss, anaemia, or the body’s efforts to fight the disease.
Lumps or Swelling
A lump that appears on the body and doesn’t go away after a few weeks should be checked by a doctor, especially if it’s hard and painless. Lumps in the breasts, testicles, or lymph nodes (in the neck, armpits, or groin) are of particular concern. While not all lumps are cancerous, a healthcare professional can assess whether further testing is needed.
Changes in Skin or Moles
Skin cancer often begins as a change in the appearance of a mole or the development of a new growth. Be on the lookout for moles that have:
- irregular borders
- changed colour
- increased in size
- become asymmetrical
These are warning signs of melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer. If you notice any changes in your skin, especially moles, see a dermatologist for a thorough examination.
Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits
Pay attention to any changes in your bowel or bladder habits, such as:
- persistent diarrhoea or constipation
- narrow stools
- blood in the stool or urine
- frequent urination or difficulty urinating
These could be signs of colorectal cancer or bladder cancer. If these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, it’s important to see a doctor.
Difficulty Swallowing
Occasional trouble swallowing due to a sore throat is common, but persistent difficulty swallowing could indicate oesophageal, throat, or stomach cancer. If swallowing feels painful or like food is getting stuck, it’s important to get this symptom checked.
Unexplained Pain
Persistent pain that doesn’t go away, especially if it occurs without injury or obvious cause, can sometimes be a sign of cancer. For instance:
- Back pain: Could indicate ovarian, pancreatic, or bone cancer.
- Headaches: Could, in rare cases, be a sign of brain cancer.
- Abdominal pain: Could signal stomach, pancreatic, or liver cancer.
If you have unexplained pain that lasts more than a couple of weeks, consult your doctor.
Treatment Options
If your symptoms are determined to be related to cancer, your healthcare provider will discuss treatment options based on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as your overall health. Here’s an overview of common cancer treatments:
Surgery
Surgery is often the first step in treating solid tumours. The goal is to remove the tumour and some of the surrounding tissue to prevent the spread of cancer cells. Surgery can be curative if the cancer is detected early and hasn’t spread to other parts of the body.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill rapidly growing cancer cells. It can be used to treat cancers that have spread or as a way to shrink tumours before surgery. While chemotherapy can be effective, it often comes with side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and hair loss due to its impact on healthy cells as well.
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with surgery and chemotherapy. Radiotherapy is often localised to specific areas of the body, and side effects vary depending on the location of the treatment.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy boosts the body’s immune system to help it recognise and attack cancer cells. This relatively new form of treatment has shown promising results in treating cancers like melanoma, lung cancer, and bladder cancer. However, it may not be suitable for all patients. You can learn more about this type of treatment at moffitt.org, who will be able to guide you through what to expect.
Recognising cancer symptoms early on and knowing when to seek medical attention is critical for effective treatment. While many symptoms can have non-cancerous causes, it’s always better to be safe and get checked by a healthcare professional if something doesn’t feel right. If diagnosed with cancer, treatment options such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and newer therapies like immunotherapy and targeted drugs offer hope. Trust your instincts and be proactive about your health, because early intervention can make all the difference.
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