10 symptoms of cancer that many ignore

Prevention and early detection are essential in the fight against cancer. Therefore, in the face of any symptom that seems abnormal or causes us concern, we must go to a specialist to evaluate it.

Knowing the possible symptoms of cancer that can occur is essential to go to the doctor for a check-up. It should be noted that one should not be afraid because some of the ones that we are going to mention occur sporadically, but rather when they occur frequently along with other discomforts, and prevent normal life.

One of the main ways to fight cancer is to detect it early . Sometimes, due to being very busy, we forget to have our annual medical check-ups and wait weeks before going to the consultation if we have any pain.

Cancer has initial symptoms that many of us are unaware of. Therefore, it is important to know them (or review them, if we have forgotten them) to take them into account.

Possible symptoms of cancer (in men and women)

Although talking about cancer can cause some fear, being well informed on the subject is essential so that, in the event of noticing any change in the state of health, we go to the doctor and discuss our concerns.

Weightloss

Another of the possible symptoms of cancer is sudden weight loss , without an apparent reason and without having made changes in diet or exercise habits, it may be associated with some type of cancer.

frequent cough

Frequent coughing can not only be the product of an allergy or a change in temperature. It can also be caused by more serious diseases, such as cancer.

If you constantly have a cold, even if you don’t smoke, you should see a doctor. Lung, throat, or laryngeal cancer may be in the making. Also pay attention to chest pain and symptoms similar to severe bronchitis (discomfort extends to the shoulders or under the arms).

frequent fever

Leukemia is a type of cancer that develops in the bone marrow and attacks blood cells. Diseased or abnormal white blood cells are produced and this affects the body’s ability to prevent or fight infection.

Joint pain

It’s true that joints can become swollen and painful due to sudden movement, overexertion or poor posture, but it can also be a sign of something more serious like bone cancer. If the joint pain does not subside, it may be time to see a doctor.

Bruises that do not heal, another possible symptom of cancer

If we hit something or fall, it is normal to have bruises or bruises. The problem lies in their appearance for no apparent reason or in a very slow healing process (when they change color until they disappear).

This can be a sign that platelets and red blood cells are not healthy and even leukemia that does not allow the blood to carry oxygen and clot properly.

Various skin changes

According to experts from the American Cancer Association, there are skin changes that can be a sign of several types of cancer (not just skin):

• Itch.
• Excessive hair growth.
• Darkening (hyperpigmentation).
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice).

Changes in the male genital tract

If you notice a lump, inflammation or pain (among other changes) in the testicles, it is necessary to go to the doctor to determine the reason. Testicular cancer is one of the fastest in advancing . According to doctors, men between the ages of 15 and 55 can do a self-exam at home to monitor changes.

In addition,  urination problems should not be underestimated : the need to go to the bathroom every so often, difficulty starting to urinate or a small amount of urine . This can be a symptom of prostate cancer, a disease that appears mainly in men over 50 years of age.

Possible symptoms of cancer in women

Let us now look at the possible symptoms of cancer in women. It should be noted that they are not the only ones that must be taken into account when discussing concerns with the doctor.

Abdominal distension

10% of the population suffers swelling regularly, especially women. This common ailment is related to  premenstrual syndrome , indigestion, or gas buildup.

But if the swelling persists for more than two weeks (and pregnancy is ruled out) and is coupled with weight loss or bleeding, this could be one of the symptoms of cancer. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor to find out if it is ovarian cancer.

bleeding between periods

During the menstrual cycle, a woman may experience some bleeding even when she is not menstruating. However, when this happens very often and several times in the same month, it may be due to a hormonal problem , stress , inflammation of the cervix or endometrial cancer.

hanges in the breasts

As with men, women can also have their breasts examined  when they take a bath or in front of the mirror. The appearance of lumps (which can extend to the armpits), discharge from the nipple, skin changes or pain outside the menstrual period must be analyzed.

Concerns? Consult with your doctor

Presenting one or more of these symptoms that we have mentioned does not necessarily imply that you are suffering from cancer, therefore, if you have concerns about your state of health, consult your doctor. The professional will evaluate your case and tell you what may be happening.

you can read more about triple-negative breast cancer