Cancer Signs and Symptoms
A variety of signs and symptoms accompany different types of cancer. Although these signs and symptoms could indicate a completely different medical condition, they should be reported to a doctor immediately. Read the following article to find out some common problems that may be indicative of cancer.
There are many reasons for coughing. However, a cough that does not go away, can not be treated with common cough medicines or is accompanied by bloody phlegm could be a sign of lung cancer. Persistent hoarseness should not be ignored as it may indicate cancer of the larynx or thyroid gland.
Delayed wound healing, especially in the mouth or on the genitals is cause for concern. Sores that don’t go away could be bleeding skin cancer. Although impaired or delayed wound healing may not be cancer, it always indicates a serious condition.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. If it is detected and treated early, it can be relatively harmless. However, left untreated, skin cancer can be deadly. Skin cancer can metastasize to any part of the body. Check your skin often for changes, oddly shaped markings and dark spots. Moles that change in size or color should be seen by a dermatologist.
Unexplained and rapid weight loss is often one of the first signs of cancer. Rapidly multiplying cancer cells require a lot of energy and burn calories quickly. Certain tumors may also release toxins that interfere with the absorption and use of consumed nutrients.
Although most types of cancer do not cause an elevated temperature, some do. Certain types of cancer tumors may emit toxins that cause fever. Fever is most common in cancers that affect the blood or the immune system.
The energy needed to create many cancer cells may leave you feeling tired even after you rest. Unnoticed blood loss caused by cancer can also lead to fatigue. If you are suddenly exhausted all the time, feel fatigued after doing everyday tasks or cannot seem to ever feel rested, consult your physician.
Growing tumors can put pressure on nearby nerves, blood vessels and organs. Unfortunately, pain is not often felt until the tumor is quite large or the cancer has metastasized. A chronic headache may be an early sign of a brain tumor because the brain is so dense.
Bloody stool or urine, blood in sputum, unusual vaginal bleeding and blood that comes from the nipples are serious concerns. Bleeding can occur at any stage of cancer growth. Early bleeding can cause weight loss.
Changes in elimination require treatment. Blood in the urine and pain during urination are abnormal conditions with some underlying cause. Chronic constipation or diarrhea may be symptoms of cancer.
This list of signs and symptoms that could indicate cancer should give you a good idea of what types of problems need to be investigated by your physician. For the best chance of successful treatment, cancer needs to be detected early. Be sure to have a complete physical every year, report unusual health issues immediately and consult with a dermatologist at least once every two year.
