Cancer can creep in quietly, often masked by everyday symptoms. Yet when your body sends persistent signals, doctors say it’s worth paying attention. Here are the signs oncologists always take seriously—especially if they last longer than two weeks.
Unexplained weight loss
Dropping more than 10 pounds without changing your diet or activity level is a red flag. Doctors emphasize that adults rarely lose weight spontaneously, so unexplained weight loss can signal that something deeper is going on.
Persistent fatigue
If you feel drained even after rest, don’t brush it off. Chronic fatigue may result from hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, or cancers that interfere with the body’s energy systems.
Changes in bowel habits
Ongoing constipation, diarrhea, or blood in your stool deserves attention. With colorectal cancer rising among younger adults, any change in your digestive routine should be checked early.
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Sudden weight gain or bloating
Unexpected abdominal weight gain may be due to fluid buildup caused by a tumor. If you also notice discomfort or bloating that doesn’t go away, consult your doctor.
Pain in the pelvis or lower abdomen
Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain could point to gynecological issues—or, in rare cases, cancers such as ovarian or endometrial. Any ongoing pain below the belt warrants a pelvic exam.
Changes in the breast
Redness, swelling, warmth, or dimpled skin on the breast may look like an infection but can indicate inflammatory breast cancer. Any new or lasting change should be examined promptly.
Lumps or swollen lymph nodes
Lymph nodes swell for many benign reasons, like infection. But if a lump stays hard or doesn’t shrink within two weeks, doctors recommend further evaluation to rule out lymphoma or other cancers.
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Vaginal bleeding or discharge
Spotting between periods or after sex shouldn’t be ignored. While it’s often hormonal, it can also signal cervical or uterine abnormalities that need investigation.
Ongoing cough or shortness of breath
A cough that lingers or unexplained shortness of breath can stem from lung infections—but may also be an early sign of lung cancer. Seek medical advice, especially if you cough up blood.
Breast tenderness or discomfort
Hormonal changes often cause soreness, but if pain affects only one breast or doesn’t match your cycle, it’s worth getting checked.
Skin changes
Skin that changes color, develops non-healing sores, or new moles that evolve quickly can signal skin cancer. Monitor any spots that look or feel different from the rest.
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Unexplained fever or night sweats
Persistent fever without infection may indicate that the immune system is fighting something serious—sometimes a blood-related cancer like leukemia or lymphoma.
Mouth or throat changes
Sores in the mouth, a lump in the throat, or a hoarse voice that lingers could point to oral or throat cancer. These signs are especially concerning for those who smoke or drink regularly.
This article is based on information from Women’s Health and WebMD
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