The cancer symptoms you should never ignore

Cancer, also called malignancy, is an abnormal growth of cells. There are more than 100 types of cancer. Symptoms vary depending on the type. Cancer treatment may include chemotherapy, radiation, and/or surgery. Constant bloating or a nagging cough — you might not think of these as warning signs of cancer, but they can be.

Changes in the skin

A new spot on your skin or one that changes size, shape or colour could be a sign of skin cancer. If you have any unusual marks, have your doctor check your skin.

Nagging cough

If you don't smoke, there is very little chance a nagging cough is a sign of cancer. But if yours does not go away or you cough up blood — especially if you are a smoker — see your doctor.

Breast changes

Most breast changes are not cancer. It is still important, though, to tell your doctor about them and have her check them out. Let the doctor know about any lumps, nipple changes or discharge, redness or thickening, or pain in your breasts.

Bloating

You may have a full, bloated feeling because of your diet or even stress. But if it does not get better or you also have fatigue, weight loss or back pain, have it checked out. Constant bloating in women may be a sign of ovarian cancer.

Problems when you pee

Many men have urinary issues as they get older. Usually, these are signs of an enlarged prostate, but they could also mean prostate cancer.

Swollen lymph nodes

You have these small, bean-shaped glands in your neck, armpits, and other places in your body. Some cancers like lymphoma and leukemia can cause swelling of lymph nodes.

Blood when you use toilet

Bloody stool is likely to come from swollen, inflamed veins called haemorrhoids, but there is a chance it could be colon cancer.

Testicle changes

A painless lump is the most common sign of testicular cancer.

Trouble swallowing

The common cold, acid reflux, or even some medicine can make it hard to swallow once in a while. If it does not get better with time or with antacids, see a doctor. Trouble swallowing can also be a sign of cancer in your throat or esophagus.

Unusual vaginal bleeding

Bleeding that is not part of your usual period can have many causes, like fibroids or even some types of birth control. But tell your doctor if you are bleeding between periods, after sex or have bloody discharge.

Mouth issues

From bad breath to canker sores, most changes in your mouth are not serious. But if you have white or red patches or sores in your mouth that don't heal after a couple of weeks — especially if you smoke — see a doctor. It may be a sign of oral cancer.

Weight loss

Of course you can slim down when you change the way you eat or exercise. It can also happen if you have other issues, like stress or a thyroid problem. But it is not normal to lose 10 pounds or more without trying. There is a chance it could be a first sign of cancer of the pancreas, stomach, oesophagus or lungs.

Fever

A fever is not usually a bad thing. But one that does not go away and does not have an obvious cause could be a sign of a blood cancer like leukemia or lymphoma.

Fatigue

A lot of things can make you very tired and most of them are not serious. But fatigue is one early sign of some cancers, like leukemia. Some colon and stomach cancers can cause blood loss that you cannot see, which can make you feel very tired.

Source: WebMD