Cancer is one of the most widespread and deadly diseases out there. Although there is a natural dread taking place in the back of our minds, most early warning signs of cancer are still ignored or misinterpreted. Many cancer signs mimic symptoms of other diseases or conditions which are easily set aside and treated as something that can wait. Therefore patients are often diagnosed in a very late stage.
Early detection is key to successfully fighting this horrible and life-threatening disease. The earlier someone gets diagnosed with cancer, the better it can be treated and lives can be saved. Here are 10 warning signs of cancer that are often ignored or misinterpreted.
1. Unusual Lumps Or Skin Changes
If you see or feel any unusual lump, thickening, persistent rash, skin sores that don’t heal, discolorations, tenderness, or swelling, it doesn’t necessarily mean skin or breast cancer, but it is good to have it checked.
2. Chronic Cough Or Difficulty Swallowing
A chronic cough that lasts longer than 3 weeks, cough up blood, chest pain, sore throat, and lip sores that don’t heal can all be early warning signs of lung, throat, or stomach cancer.
3. Frequent Infections And Fevers
We all get sick once in a while, but if you notice that you’re getting sick or feverish more often or fever lasts longer than 3 to 4 days, there should ring a bell. These can be the early warning signs of some types of cancer such as leukemia, Hodgkin’s disease or non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
4. Digestive Issues
Although digestive issues like bloating, constipation, nausea, heartburn, or gas are very common, especially amongst woman, if they persist and get worse, it is best to see your doctor. When you see blood in your stool you should get it checked immediately.
5. Unexplainable Weight Loss Or Loss Of Appetite
Many serious health conditions such as cancer can cause unexplainable weight loss and a loss of appetite. If you are not changing your diet or activity level and are losing weight, contact your doctor to get it checked.
6. Chronic Headaches
If you frequently suffer from migraines or headaches it could be a tumor pressing on your nerves which cause the pain.
7. Constant Feeling Tired
When your body is fighting cancer your immune system goes in overdrive and consumes more of your energy. If you feel tired all the time, even after a good night’s rest, or struggle with shortness of breath and energy loss, go see your doctor.
8. Abnormal Periods, postmenopausal bleeding Or Pelvic Pain
If you start having heavier periods, bleed between periods, or experiences pelvic or lower belly pain, and these symptoms get worse or persists, visit your gynecologist to get it sorted out. If you notice any of these warning signs it doesn’t mean you have cancer. Even if you struggle with all of them it can still be benign or just your body that is going through some physical changes. But if any of these symptoms persist and progress or they have you worried, it is important to head to your doctor right away to sorts things out.
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