Cancer Symptoms to Know

Johnny Sack

JF-Expert Member
Jan 21, 2017
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Cancer refers to any one of a large number of diseases characterized by the development of abnormal cells that divide uncontrollably and have the ability to infiltrate and destroy normal body tissue. Cancer often has the ability to spread throughout your body.

Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in the world. But survival rates are improving for many types of cancer, thanks to improvements in cancer screening and cancer treatment. Screenings can detect a cancer before symptoms appear. here are 10 symptoms that may warrant a call to your doctor:

Not every symptom that could be cancer is cancer. But here are 10 symptoms that may warrant a call to your doctor.

no. 1. Changes in Your Skin.​

A new spot on your skin or one that changes size, shape, or color could be a sign of skin cancer. Another is a spot that doesn't look the same as all the others on your body. If you have any unusual marks, have your doctor check your skin.

no. 2. Nagging Cough.​

If you smoke, there's a chance a nagging cough is a sign of cancer. if it doesn't go away or you cough up blood see your doctor.

no. 3. Breast Changes.​

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

no. 4. Problems When You Pee.​

Many men have urinary issues as they get older, like the need to go more often, leaks, or a weak stream. Usually, these are signs of an enlarged prostate, but they could also mean prostate cancer. See your doctor for an exam and maybe a special blood test called a PSA test.

no.5. Swollen Lymph Nodes.​

These are bean-shaped glands in your neck, armpits, and other places in your body. When they're swollen, it often means you're fighting an infection like a cold or strep throat. Some cancers like lymphoma and leukemia can also cause this kind of swelling. Talk to your doctor to pinpoint the cause.

no.6. Blood When You Use the Bathroom.​

If you see blood in the toilet after you go, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor. Bloody stool is likely to come from swollen, inflamed veins called hemorrhoids, but there's a chance it could be colon cancer. Blood in your pee could be a problem like a urinary tract infection, but it may be kidney or bladder cancer.

no.7. Testicle Changes.​

If you notice a lump or swelling in your testicles, you need to see your doctor right away. A painless lump is the most common sign of testicular cancer.

no.8. Trouble Swallowing.​

The common cold, acid reflux, or even some medicine can make it hard to swallow once in a while. If it doesn’t get better with time or with antacids, see your doctor. Trouble swallowing can also be a sign of cancer in your throat or the pipe between your mouth and stomach, called the esophagus.

no.9. Unusual Vaginal Bleeding.​

Bleeding that's 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're bleeding between periods, after sex, or have bloody discharge. They'll want to rule out cancer of the uterus, cervix, or vagina.

no. 10 Mouth Issues.​

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 your doctor. It may be a sign of oral cancer.
 
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