The Most Common Symptoms of Cancer
One in two men and one in three women will develop cancer throughout a lifetime. That’s why it’s essential to be aware of the common symptoms of cancer, so you can catch it early and seek treatment. Cancers of all types can affect anyone at any age. One way of helping curb the impacts of cancer is through cancer donations. Channel your cancer donations to organizations funding cancer research, such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the American Cancer Society. Read on for the most common symptoms of cancer in both men and women:
1. Unexplained fatigue
First and foremost, one of the most common symptoms of cancer is fatigue. If you suddenly feel tired all the time, for no reason, this could be a sign that something is wrong. Of course, we all feel tired sometimes, but if you notice that your fatigue is constant and lasts for more than two weeks, it’s time to see a doctor. Fatigue most often develops as a symptom of blood cancers—including leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma.
2. Sudden weight loss without trying
Another common symptom of cancer is sudden weight loss without trying. This could signify that the cancer is affecting your metabolism or digestive system. If you are losing weight but not trying to via diet or exercise, it’s time to see a doctor. In some cases, weight loss can be caused by other health conditions, so getting checked out is essential. Sudden and noticeable weight loss most often occurs with stomach, pancreatic, esophageal and lung cancers.
3. An abnormal lump or mass
When you think of cancer, you might think of finding a lump or mass via a breast self-exam. While not all cancers form a mass, it is still a common symptom. These lumps can be found anywhere on the body but are most commonly found in the breast, testicle, or neck area. If you find an abnormal lump, it’s important to see a doctor, as they can perform a biopsy to determine if it is cancerous. Therefore, it is vital to perform regular self-exams, so you are familiar with what is normal for your body and can spot any changes.
4. Excessive bruising or bleeding
Cancer can also cause excessive bleeding or bruising. This is because cancer can affect the production of blood cells. Also, if your bruises are not healing as quickly as they usually do, this could be a sign of cancer. Studies have shown that leukemia cancer patients are more likely to bruise easily and have longer-lasting bruises. If you notice any of these changes, please see a doctor as soon as possible.
5. Unusual discharge
In addition to excessive bruising and bleeding, cancer can also cause unusual discharge. This could be from any body part but is most commonly seen in the bowel (colon or rectal cancer), urinary tract (bladder), or reproductive organs (cervical, ovarian or uterine cancer). If you notice any changes in your normal bodily functions, such as bleeding unrelated to your menstrual cycle, see a doctor as soon as possible.
6. Persistent cough or trouble swallowing
Another common symptom of cancer is a persistent cough or trouble swallowing. If you are coughing up blood or having difficulty swallowing, this could be a sign of oral cancer (e.g., esophageal cancer or mouth and tongue cancers). These symptoms are also common in lung cancer patients, but can also be seen in other types of cancer.
7. Change in bowel or bladder habits
Lastly, a change in bowel or bladder habits is a common bowel cancer symptom (i.e., colorectal, prostate, or bladder cancer). This could be anything from constipation or diarrhea to blood in your stool or urine. In some cases, these changes can be caused by other health conditions, but if they are persistent and accompanied by other symptoms on this list, it’s essential to get checked out by a doctor.