To protect ourselves from the coronavirus, many of us are postponing annual checkups and screenings, often related to cancer. It’s clear. However, early detection is one of the best ways to combat the disease.
Screening helps detect cancer before symptoms appear. You too can spot warning signs by paying attention to changes in your body. If you notice anything new or unusual that persists or lasts for several weeks, contact your healthcare provider. Not all signs of cancer are cancer. Here are 17 symptoms that should prompt you to see a doctor.
Abnormal menstruation or pelvic pain
Most women experience irregular periods and cramps from time to time. However, persistent pain and changes in your cycle may be a sign of cervical, uterine, or ovarian cancer.
Changing toilet habits
Significant changes in physical activity may indicate colon, prostate or bladder cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Warning signs include persistent constipation and diarrhea; black or red blood in the stool; black, tarry stools; urinate more often; and blood in the urine.
Bloating
We all feel bloated from time to time. But bloating for more than two weeks can be a sign of ovarian cancer, as well as various cancers of the gastrointestinal tract.
Breast changes
These include new lumps and lumps around the nipple, discoloration, and unusual discharge that has never happened before. Although most cases of breast cancer occur in women, men can also suffer from it.
Chronic cough
A cough that lasts more than two weeks, especially a dry cough, may be a sign of lung cancer.
Chronic headache
Headaches that last more than two weeks and do not respond to conventional medications may be caused by a brain tumor.
Difficulty swallowing
If you feel like your throat is stuck or have trouble swallowing for more than two weeks, it could be a sign of throat, lung, or stomach cancer.
Excessive bruising
A bruise on your shin after hitting a coffee table is normal. But the presence of many bruises in unusual places without a sudden collision may indicate the presence of various types of leukemia.
Frequent fever and infections.
Repeated fevers or changes from one infection to another may indicate that the immune system has become more susceptible to lymphoma or leukemia.
Oral modifications
Persistent sores, injuries and painful spots in the mouth, especially in people who smoke or drink heavily, may indicate the presence of various types of oral cancer.