General signs and symptoms of cancer

If we detect initial signs, cancer may be diagnosed early and the chances for recovery are multiplied. Cancer symptoms differ depending on a type. In some cancers the symptoms are manifested at later stages, while in others they do not appear at all. For example stomach cancer is manifested with pain in the left upper abdomen, a loss of appetite or fatigue at its later stage. Whereas leukaemia produces many symptoms associated with decreased immunity and a higher susceptibility to infections. Warning signals exist in cancer with symptoms that should not be ignored.

Body changes

Palpating an unusual lump anywhere on the body is definitely a good reason to see a doctor. It can be a typical sign of breast cancer, testicular, laryngeal, or thyroid cancer and other types.

Changes to the size or colour of moles and freckles should not be underestimated; this includes a sudden bleeding of a mole. In this case a visit to a doctor should not be delayed as the symptoms may indicate skin cancer.

We should be cautious when a sudden weight loss appears. This sign is commonly accompanied with a loss of appetite or fatigue and it may indicate e.g. liver cancer, pancreatic or prostate cancer. Apart from weight loss, leukaemia is associated with night sweats, vertigo, tinnitus or palpitations.

Alarming are changes to bowel movement. Prostate cancer is linked to problems with urination; typical signs are a frequent need to pass urine, urination at night, retention of urine or the presence of blood in urine. Also a long-term constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, problems with bowel movement and blood in stools are problematic. These manifestations are present in people with colon cancer.

Inconspicuous signs and symptoms

Even minor troubles may indicate a great health problem. If you feel any changes mentioned above or you have been experiencing unexplained pain (chest pain may indicate lung cancer), excessive fatigue with no reason, shortness of breath, unexplained bleeding or other unexplained health problems, then you should definitely seek some medical advice.