Knowing about Cancer symptoms is very important to seek early diagnosis and prompt treatment. It also avoids unnecessary panic.
Symptoms of Cancer depend on the site of Cancer
Cancer is an abnormal, aggressive tumor that usually starts in an organ – known as Solid tumor. Sometimes Cancer may start from blood cells, in which case, it will manifest in many places in the body – like leukemias, lymphomas.
For Solid tumors, the symptoms will depend on the area where the tumor starts. The symptoms of a throat cancer will be different from symptoms of a Brain Cancer or Breast Cancer.
So when we talk about symptoms, we generally mean the symptoms of most common cancers.
Why should we know about Symptoms of Cancer.?
An important element in the fight against Cancer is the time which we intervene. Same tumor treated 2 months late will have dramatically poorer outcomes, compared to earlier outcome.
Thus, awareness of symptoms will make us seek consultation early. This will help in catching the Cancer early, and maximize the chances of cure.
Symptoms of Common Cancers
Throat Cancer symptoms
- Change in voice
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Swellings in Neck
Lung Cancer symptoms
- Uncontrolled cough
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood stained sputum
Stomach Cancer
- Regular Vomiting after food intake
- Unexplained weight loss
- Anemia that is not corrected easily
Uterine Cancer / Cervical Cancer
- Abnormal bleeding
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Bleeding that reappears after menopause
Breast Cancer
- New swelling in Breast or Armpit
- Redness or dimpling in skin
- Pulling in of nipple
- Unusual nipple discharge
Bowel Cancer
- Recent, persistent changes in bowel movements – Constipation or Diarrhea
- Unexplained Anemia
- Black or Red colored stools
3-week Rule
This is a simple rule that will clarify many confusing scenarios.
Remember, symptoms due to Cancer almost never get better without treatment.
Whereas, most common non-cancer related symptoms – related to infection or inflammation- will resolve in 3 weeks after proper consultation and treatment.
So, any symptom that persists after 3 weeks of treatment with the concerned doctor, should raise a suspicion of Cancer.