Cancer is a group of diseases where abnormal cells grow uncontrollably and damage healthy tissues in the body.
It can spread throughout the body and is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Advancements in cancer screening, treatment, and prevention have led to improved survival rates for many types of cancer.
Cancer can cause several symptoms, but all these symptoms are seldom caused by illness, injury, benign tumours, or other problems.
What are the common symptoms?
Cancer has many symptoms that are common with other diseases. This is why it’s important to pay attention to accompanying factors. Here are some common symptoms of cancer:
- Heavy Night Sweats: Heavy fever and sweating at night a major indications of an infection in the body. Hot flashes are also a symptom of menopause in women. Still, it shouldn’t be ignored and one should consult with a doctor.
- Constant Fatigue: Stress or lack of sleep is a reason for fatigue. But, constant fatigue without any reason may be a sign of something more. It’s important to get it checked by a doctor and to follow their guidelines.
- Bleeding or bruising: Unexplained bleeding between periods, after menopause, in the gums as well as random bruises without any explanation are a cause of concern. Bleeding and bruising mean that your blood cells are not working properly.
- Unexplained weight loss: Pain is something that we all feel. However, unexplained and persistent pain is not normal and common. Immediately consult with the doctor to know the root cause.
Cancer Symptoms specific to the body part
Apart from these common symptoms, cancer also affects our body parts. Here are some of the common symptoms specific to them:
- Cancer Symptoms in the mouth
- Difficulty in swallowing: Certain medical conditions can make swallowing difficult. Still, talk to your doctor if the problem persists.
- Mouth or Tongue Ulcers: Mouth ulcers are common as they usually indicate a deficiency of vitamins or excess body heat. Ulcers usually go away in two weeks but you should see a doctor if the white or red patch is not going away.
- Symptoms that affect stomach
- Bloating: Certain food can cause severe bloating, but persistent bloating is not normal.
- Heartburn or Indigestion: It is common to experience mild discomfort or pain after consuming a large, fatty, or spicy meal. However, if you frequently suffer from heartburn (acid reflux) or indigestion, or if the pain is severe, it is advisable to consult your doctor.
- Loss of Appetite: Loss of appetite can have various causes. If you have noticed a decrease in your hunger and it persists, it is advisable to consult your doctor.
- Symptoms that affect voice
- Croaky or hoarse voice: Asthma, cold and throat infections bring hoarse or croaky voice with them. If the hoarse and croaky voice persists even after the conditions have improved, it’s best advised to consult a doctor.
- Symptoms that affect skin
- Sores: The skin typically heals within a week, but a doctor should check any spot, wart, or sore that doesn’t heal, even if it’s painless.
- Changes in the skin: It’s important to have any unusual changes in skin or nails checked by a doctor, whether they are new or have been present for some time.
- Appearance of a mole: Most moles are harmless, but it’s important to keep an eye on any new moles or existing ones that change in size, shape, or color. If they become crusty, itchy, painful, bleed, or ooze, you should seek medical attention.
Who does cancer affect?
Cancer can affect anyone regardless of their age. However, it is more prevalent in older individuals, with most cases occurring in people aged 50 or above. It is crucial not to dismiss any unusual changes, aches, or pains as a natural part of ageing or assume that a symptom is due to a pre-existing health condition.
Irrespective of your age, it is always advisable to pay attention to your body and consult your doctor if you notice anything unusual or abnormal.
What are the causes of cancer?
Cancer is a disease that occurs due to changes or mutations in the DNA of cells. The DNA in a cell is made up of numerous genes, each of which contains instructions that guide the cell’s functions, growth, and division. When there are errors in these instructions, the cell may stop functioning normally and become cancerous.