Due to the vast amount of cancer types it is impossible to try and remember all the potential signs and symptoms that could occur. However, there are some key warning signs that, when spotted, may lead to early detection.
Most cases of cancer develop in individuals aged 50 or over, but the disease can affect someone of any age. Cancer Research UK also notes and encourages the following: “Listen to your body and talk to your doctor if something doesn’t feel quite right.”
READ RELATED: Cigarette smoking doubles risk of developing heart failure, says new long-term study
It is important to note the difference between a sign and a symptom. Both are ways in which the body lets you know of an illness or injury but a sign is often noticed by someone else such as a fever or bleeding and a symptom is more often noticed by the person who has it such as pain or fatigue.
Some of the most general cancer symptoms, according to the charity, include the following:
- Unexplained pain or ache. Pain is one way our bodies tell us that something is wrong. As we get older, it‘s more common to experience aches and pains. But unexplained pain could be a sign of something more serious.
- Very heavy night sweats. Sweating at night can be caused by infections or it can be a side effect of certain medications. It’s also often experienced by women around the time of the menopause. But very heavy, drenching night sweats can also be a sign of cancer.
- Unexplained weight loss. Small weight changes over time are quite normal, but if you lose a noticeable amount of weight without trying to, tell your doctor.
- Unusual lump or swelling anywhere. Persistent lumps or swelling in any part of your body should be taken seriously. That includes any lumps in the neck, armpit, stomach, groin, chest, breast or testicle.
- Fatigue. There are lots of reasons you may feel more tired than usual, particularly if you’re going through a stressful event, or having troubles sleeping. But if you’re feeling tired for no clear reason, it could be a sign that something is wrong – speak to your doctor.
Source: Daily Express
