Cancer, when detected early, is often more treatable, which can significantly improve outcomes. Unfortunately, many early-stage cancers present symptoms that are easy to overlook. Being aware of subtle changes in your body is critical. Here’s a guide to recognizing those subtle signs and symptoms that might warrant further investigation.
Unexplained Weight Loss
While losing weight without trying may seem appealing, sudden and unexplained weight loss can be a red flag. It’s common for people to associate weight loss with stress or lifestyle changes, but if you’ve lost more than 5% of your body weight within six months without a clear reason, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare professional. This is often associated with cancers of the stomach, pancreas, lungs, or esophagus. At moffitt.org, you can explore the signs and symptoms of a range of cancers, including lung cancer.
Persistent Fatigue
Fatigue from a busy life is normal, but persistent and unexplained tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest could be a sign of an underlying health issue, including cancer. Blood cancers like leukemia often cause fatigue because they interfere with normal blood cell production, while cancers like colon or stomach cancer may result in blood loss, contributing to anemia and fatigue.
Changes in the Skin
Our skin can give us vital clues about internal health. Look out for any unusual changes in moles or the appearance of new growths, especially if they’re irregular in shape, have uneven borders, or change in size or color. While most skin changes are harmless, they can sometimes be an early sign of skin cancer, such as melanoma. Additionally, skin that becomes yellowish (jaundice) may indicate liver or pancreatic cancer.
Persistent Cough or Hoarseness
Coughing from a cold or flu typically resolves within a few weeks, but if a cough or hoarseness lingers beyond that without an obvious cause, it could be a symptom of lung or throat cancer. Pay attention to any accompanying symptoms like shortness of breath or coughing up blood.
Difficulty Swallowing
Occasional difficulty swallowing can happen, but persistent problems may point to something more serious, like esophageal, throat, or stomach cancer. If swallowing becomes painful or food often feels like it’s getting stuck, it’s important to seek medical advice.
Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits
Changes in bowel habits—such as diarrhea, constipation, or a sudden change in the size or shape of stools—might be early signs of colorectal cancer. Blood in the stool, while sometimes attributed to conditions like hemorrhoids, should never be ignored. Similarly, bladder changes such as blood in the urine or frequent urination may point to bladder or kidney cancer.
Persistent Pain
Pain is often overlooked, especially if it’s mild or intermittent. However, cancer can cause pain in the early stages, depending on its location. For example, a persistent headache that doesn’t respond to typical treatment may be a sign of a brain tumor, while frequent pain in the abdomen could point to ovarian, pancreatic, or stomach cancer.
Unexplained Bruising or Bleeding
Unusual bleeding or bruising without injury can be a sign of blood cancers like leukemia, where the body’s ability to form blood clots is compromised. Pay attention to frequent nosebleeds, blood in the urine, or unexpected bruises on the skin.
Lumps or Swelling
Feeling a lump or swelling in any part of the body, such as the neck, underarms, breasts, or testicles, could indicate cancer. Lumps that are painless and grow slowly over time are especially concerning, as these are more likely to be malignant. Regular self-exams and awareness of your body’s normal state are essential for early detection.
Unexplained Fevers or Night Sweats
Frequent fevers or night sweats, particularly if they’re accompanied by other symptoms, can signal cancer, especially lymphoma or leukemia. While fevers can be caused by infections, unexplained fevers without signs of infection shouldn’t be ignored.
Taking Action: When to See a Doctor
If you notice any of these symptoms persisting for more than a couple of weeks, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider. While these symptoms can be caused by a range of conditions, early intervention is key. Diagnosing cancer early on often involves tests like blood work, imaging scans, and biopsies. Screening tests like mammograms, Pap smears, colonoscopies, and PSA tests can also help to detect cancer in its early stages, even before symptoms appear.
Prevention and Vigilance
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle—such as exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol consumption—can help to reduce your risk of cancer. However, even those who lead healthy lives should remain vigilant. Regular checkups and cancer screenings appropriate to your age and risk factors are essential tools for early detection.
Understanding and recognizing subtle cancer symptoms is the first step in protecting your health. By paying attention to the signals your body sends and taking action when necessary, you can improve your chances of early detection and successful treatment.
