The Top 10 Most Ignored Signs Of Cancer

Although the disease is deadly, treating cancer is possible if it’s detected and treated in its early stages. Cancer doesn’t show symptoms like a cold or the flu – its symptoms are subtle which is why they’re often ignored until it’s too late. Early detection of cancer is very important and can significantly increase the chances of your survival.

If you notice any of the symptoms from the list below, don’t panic – they might also be symptoms of other less serious diseases. We suggest visiting a doctor as soon as possible in order to get proper diagnosis and treatment.

Here are the 10 most ignored signs of cancer:

1. White spots on the inside of the mouth and tongue

This could be a sign of leukoplakia, a pre-cancerous skin condition caused by frequent irritation, smoking or chewing tobacco. If ignored, these white spots may turn to oral cancer, which is why you should consult with a doctor as soon as you notice them.

2. Irregular periods and discharge from the nipples

Irregular and heavy periods or unusual discharge from the nipples is never a good sign, and should be checked by a doctor.

3. Skin changes

If a wart, mole or freckles changes its size, shape or color, it may be a symptom of melanoma or other types of skin cancer. Hyperpigmentation of the skin, red patches and unusual hair growth can also be signs of skin cancer.

4. Changes in bowel movements

Any kind of change in your bowel movements should not be ignored as they can do much damage. If they persist for a longer period, they may be caused by some type of digestive cancer, so make sure to check the symptoms at a doctor.

5. Throat problems

If vocal hoarseness, chest pain, cough and shortness of breath go on for more than 3 weeks, you need to visit a doctor and make some tests to rule out cancer. These problems may be signs of esophageal, stomach or throat cancer, or symptoms of other serious diseases.

6. Loss of appetite and weight loss

Loss of appetite or sudden weight loss can be caused by pancreatic, stomach, esophageal and lung cancer. Check your weight occasionally in order to be more aware of any changes in your weight.

7. Bruises that don’t heal or bleeding sores

Bruises or sores that don’t heal over time are some of the most common signs of cancer. A long-lasting mouth ulcer could indicate oral cancer in the early stages, while sores in the intimate area may be caused by genital cancer. If you notice these problems, make sure to visit a doctor immediately.

8. Pain

Pain all over the body may indicate that the cancer has spread to other areas. People suffering from bone or testicular cancer experience pain in the early stages, while brain tumor patients experience sharp headaches that don’t respond to treatment. Colon, rectum or ovarian cancer may cause back pain, so you might want to check that leg or back pain that has been nagging you recently.

9. Fatigue

Fatigue is one of the most ignored signs of cancer. General fatigue which occurs without reason may be a sign of colon, stomach cancer or leukemia. These 3 types of cancer can also leave you without sleep, which can make you tired in the morning.

10. Bruising and tumors

Tumors can be either benign or malignant. Breast cancer, testicular cancer and cancer of the lymph nodes usually start as a tumor that can be felt through the skin, so it’s best to visit a doctor as soon as you feel a lump that shouldn’t be there.

Source:https://www.cancer.org