Cancer signs often go undetected as they can be very small and people notice them when become too late. In fact, most people feel fine until the doctors establish the proper diagnosis. Therefore, knowing how to recognize the signs of cancer is of utmost importance when it comes to prevention and proper treatment. Consider the following early signs of cancer:
1.Itchy Skin
The body treats cancer as foreign bacteria and the immune system fights it with the help of white blood cells. This leads to an increase in the blood flow in areas where cancer cells thrive, which in turn causes itchy skin, redness, tightness, and change in coloration.
2.Changes in Urination
Any change in urination, such as presence of foam, blood, strength of the urine flow, smell, and color may indicate cancer and it seeks medical attention.
3.Changes in Voice
Cancer of the larynx may affect the pitch and the tone of your voice. Therefore, if you notice any changes in your voice, this may be a sign of a tumor growing in your body.
4.Wounds That Don’t Heal
In case your wound takes a lot of time to heal, it may be a sign of cancer. The explanation behind this is that the cancer is taken as a priority by the immune system and the defense zone focuses on the cancer rather than on the wound. Clean the wound thoroughly and get a blood screening!
5.Coughing
Many cancer types may cause persistent cough, such as cancer of the throat, lungs, and even the stomach. Make sure you get checked as soon as possible in case of persistent cough.
6.Bleeding
If you have unexplained bleeding which is not attributed to your menstrual cycle, get checked! Any bleeding from the uterus, nipples, or other organs seeks medical attention.
7.Bumps on the Mouth or Tongue
White-colored bumps on the gums, throat or inside of the mouth may be a sign of cancer. Consult your doctor in case you have any of these.
8.Lump Beneath the Skin
Lumps beneath the skin can be detected by doing a self-exam. A good way to see if you have any change it the body is to touch the area and look for any unusual feeling. Do a self-exam on the breasts, armpits, abdomen, skin, throat, and testicles. This is very important as it allows you to detect any changes before they develop into larger tumors.
9.Changes in Bowel Movements
Any type of change which lasts for more than two days, such as blood in the stool, may be a sign of colon cancer. Pay attention to signs like constipation, diarrhea, darker color of the stool, mucus, pain, or lighter color of the stool as well.
10.Loss of Appetite or Trouble Swallowing
Anything that inhibits the function of the digestive process is a matter of concern as it affects body`s ability to get the nutrition from the food we consume.
