Signs of Cancer: What To Look Out For
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) account for better than two-thirds of all deaths globally. Of these, the unholy quartet of cardiovascular diseases, Cancers, Diabetes and Chronic Lung Diseases claim a disproportionate share of fatalities. In any discussion of deadly diseases, Cancer will invariably be mentioned. This is why it is of paramount importance to acquaint oneself with Signs of Cancer and seek prompt medical advice should any of the symptoms associated with this disease show up. Most cancers have already taken hold by the time the symptoms become evident. However, with prompt and appropriate medical interventions, Cancer can be managed and, sometimes, even eliminated.
Different types of cancers announce their presence in a variety of ways. Nobody is immune. One is however more likely to be diagnosed with the disease as one grows older; the majority of recorded cases turn up among the over 50s. Unflagging vigilance is necessary since one is likely to chalk down any changes in the body to the ageing process. Any unusual and persistent change in your body and bodily functions should be brought to your doctor’s attention immediately.
Lumps or swellings on the body may be signs of something quite innocuous. Better safe than sorry, though; have these distensions examined by a health professional.
The presence of blood in the urine and faeces are hard to gloss over and most people will undoubtedly seek medical attention at the earliest opportunity.
We are conditioned to reach for analgesics when we experience any unexplained aches and pains. These aches and pains could be the body signalling the presence of Cancer in the body. Ibuprofen, Aspirins and other analgesics only serve to mask the pain. Should the aches and pains persist beyond a couple of days stop the self-medication immediately and consult your doctor without undue delay. Self-diagnosis and self-medication are discouraged anyway. Medicine is a specialised field and trained professionals are always the best people to turn to for advice.
A persistent cough, especially one with blood-streaked phlegm could well be among the many Signs of Cancer. The cough will invariably be accompanied by persistent hoarseness. Breathlessness, persistent heartburn, indigestion, bloating, mouth ulcers and sores are also possible indications of this disease. Vaginal bleeding that is not menses-related should also be checked immediately.
Should a new mole appear on your skin, or if an existing one begins to change or show signs of modification, flag this development for a doctor-patient discussion. The same holds true for sores that will not heal. These may appear in the mouth or directly on the skin.
Other possible Signs of Cancer may include difficulty in passing urine, loose stool that is not quite of the watery diarrhea-consistency and more frequent urges to go to the toilet. Persistent diarrhea, too, should be cause for concern and may be linked to the presence of Cancer. Any change in breast size, or consistency of breast tissue, is another likely symptom.
More possible indications of Cancer may include difficulty in swallowing, unexplained weight loss and heavy nocturnal perspiration. These symptoms could also be due to a transient benign condition. Or they could be portents of this scourge in the body. One should not unduly panic when any of these potential Signs of Cancer show up. One should not be complacent either. Regular screenings and check-ups will allay any fears or, if the presence of Cancer is confirmed, facilitate appropriate treatment.