IT’S easy to brush off niggling health problems as something that will go away with time.
However, doctors often advise us to not ignore certain symptoms as they could be indicative of cancer.
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Cancer can be treated more quickly if it is caught early.
Every day, 450 people are killed by cancer in the UK and thousands more globally.
Lung, breast and cancer are the most prevalent forms of the disease.
Many times, the symptoms of this deadly disease are so obscure that those who have been diagnosed can only see them later.
It is possible that they were misdiagnosed either by their doctor, or even by looking on the internet.
Experts advise people to become familiar with their body, including checking their breasts and testicles often. This will help identify any new symptoms.
The NHS says: “It’s important to be aware of any new or worrying symptoms.
“Although it’s unlikely to be cancer, it’s important to speak to a GP so they can investigate.”
According to Cancer Research UK there are more than 200 types of cancer. Each type has its own set of symptoms.
Although some are specific to certain types of cancers, others are general.
According to the charity, these are general cancer symptoms that can be found in any patient.
- Unexplained pain
- Very heavy night sweats
- Unexplained weight gain
- Unusual lump or swelling
- Fatigue
Dr Anne Marie Lennon, a Johns Hopkins gastroenterologist, Five symptoms are revealed She would never overlook:
A shortness of breath
There are many reasons for shortness of breathing. Sometimes it’s because a person is unfit or has asthma, for example.
But Dr Lennon says: “If you notice you’re getting out of breath with normal activities or walking stairs, however, that’s abnormal and should be evaluated.”
A key sign of lung cancer is shortness of breathe. It can also cause unexplained tiredness and weight loss.
Bleeding
In rare cases, bleeding should be checked by a doctor.
It could be lung cancer if you cough up blood. If blood is found in the stool, it could be bowel cancer. Urine may contain prostate cancer.
An abnormal vaginal flow is common in women with gynaecological tumors. A bloody discharge could indicate breast cancer.
Lumps
Most people recognize that lumps are a major sign of cancer.
But the problem is, people often don’t look for them. They may not see a doctor even if they do find them.
The NHS advises you to see your doctor if your breasts are bulging or if your lump is rapidly growing in other areas.
It may not be cancer but it’s always worth checking.
Dr Lennon says: “Sometimes, lumps can be completely normal. One example is a cold that can cause lymph nodes swelling.
“This is temporary and is your body’s way of fighting off the cold.”
Difficulty swallowing, or feeling full
Are you having trouble eating like a normal person?
Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) may be caused due to obstruction from the mouth or throat cancer.
For example, if you feel satisfied even if you eat less than usual, it could be an indication of ovarian carcinoma.
Modifications in body functions
Do you know your bowels well?
Because becoming familiar with what’s normal for you could save your life.
Changes in our toilet habits such as difficulty passing stool, diarrhoea or difficulty passing stool may be signs of anxiety or indulgence.
But there are other causes that can be more serious.
Changes in our bowel and pancreatic cancer often begin as symptoms. “number twos”.
Dr Lennon suggests calling your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms:
- Sudden constipation/Diarrhea
- It is difficult to pass urine or stool.
- Breathing in urine or urine mixed into your stool
- Feeling like you’re not emptying your bowels completely
- Any other alteration to your normal bowel function
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