Cancer Symptoms

Cancer is a term that generates palpable fear among most individuals. Cancer basically refers to the condition where the cells within the body continue to multiply even when it is not needed by the body resulting in growth of tumors that are malignant. If malignant these tumors can spread the disease to the other areas of the body. This disease can affect almost every single organ within the body and each cancer type is quite unique having its own causes as well as symptoms. Different cancer types also need different kinds of treatments. Awareness of the disease and the underlying cancer symptoms is important to its early detection as well as treatment.

While the cancer symptoms may be different for the different cancer types certain common factors can be kept in mind while identifying possibility of cancer. Fatigue is among the most common symptoms of cancer and this is particularly felt during the later stages of the disease. Along with fatigue many patients also tend to experience considerable and unintentional weight loss. Such weight loss may be accompanied with loss of appetite in some cases. In cases of ovarian as well as colon cancer pain may be experienced in lower back areas while in case of lung cancer shoulder pain is quite common. Unexplained and persistent pain that does not go away even after 3 weeks should be thoroughly investigated. Heavy night sweats may occur in case of infections or if some medicines are taken. In case such night sweats are persistently experienced then these should be checked.

Other cancer symptoms may include bowel changes with problems like appearance of blood in the stool, diarrhea, thin stools, constipation etc. Persistent fever or fever that comes and goes easily can also be a cancer related symptom. Chronic cough that does not go away even after a few weeks or even after taking medicines should be evaluated. Blood or mucus in the cough can also be due to cancer and so should be thoroughly checked. All these symptoms appearing alone or in combination with others should be investigated.

Cancer symptoms also include unusual lumps or swelling within the body. The lump may be painless and in such cases immediate medical evaluation is crucial. Likewise any changes in size, color or shape of a mole should also be brought to the notice of your doctor. Sores and ulcers that do not heal even after several weeks should also be evaluated as should problems like croaky voice, throat problems like difficulty in swallowing etc.

Problems in passing urine and blood in urine may also be investigated for potential cancer symptoms. Women should specifically pay attention to any changes in their breasts as well as major changes in their menstrual patterns. Pelvic pain, abdominal swelling, bloating, lower back pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding should be thoroughly investigated. It is important to ensure that any changes or problems are brought to the attention of your medical health professional. While every pain or fever may not be cancer related it is important to get proper medical support.