12 Most Common Cancer symptoms and How to Spot Them

12 Common  Signs and Symptoms of Cancer that may Indicate the Presence of Cancer

1. Persistent cough or hoarseness: If you have a cough that doesn't go away or your voice becomes hoarse without any apparent reason, it could be a sign of lung cancer  or throat cancer.
2. Unexplained weight loss: Significant and unexplained weight loss, especially if it occurs rapidly, can be a symptom of various types of cancer, including pancreatic, stomach, esophageal, or lung cancer.
3. Changes in bowel or bladder habits: Persistent changes in bowel movements such as diarrhea, constipation, or changes in bladder function like frequent urination or blood in the urine can be indicative of colorectal, bladder, or prostate cancer.
4. Persistent fatigue: Feeling constantly tired or experiencing extreme fatigue that doesn't improve with rest could be a sign of leukemia, colon, or stomach cancer.
5. Difficulty swallowing: Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, can be a symptom of throat, esophageal, or stomach cancer.
6. Persistent indigestion or discomfort: Chronic indigestion, stomach pain, or discomfort after eating may indicate stomach, esophageal, or pancreatic cancer.
7. Changes in moles or skin lesions: Any changes in the size, shape, color, or texture of moles or skin lesions, as well as the appearance of new ones, should be evaluated by a dermatologist, as they could be signs of skin cancer.
8. Persistent sore throat or mouth ulcers: Sore throat or mouth ulcers that do not heal within a few weeks could be indicative of throat or oral cancer.
9. Unexplained bleeding: Unexplained bleeding or discharge from any part of the body, such as blood in the stool, urine, or coughing up blood, should be promptly evaluated as it may signal various types of cancer, including colorectal, bladder, or lung cancer.
10. Lumps or swelling: The presence of lumps or swelling in the breast, testicles, lymph nodes, or any other part of the body should be examined by a healthcare professional, as they could be symptoms of breast, testicular, or lymphatic system cancers.
11. Persistent pain: Persistent pain, particularly if it doesn't have an obvious cause or if it worsens over time, may be a symptom of bone, brain, or other types of cancer.
12. Changes in menstrual cycle: Any significant changes in the menstrual cycle, such as irregular periods or abnormal vaginal bleeding, should be investigated further, as they could be signs of gynecological cancers.

It's important to note that experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have cancer, as many of them can also be caused by other conditions. However, if you notice any persistent or unexplained symptoms, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection and treatment significantly improve the chances of successful outcomes in cancer cases.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak P | Fortis BG Road