Cancer is a diagnosis that can drastically alter one’s life. Early detection is critical to improving survival rates and treatment outcomes. Understanding the warning signs can lead to earlier intervention and better health prospects.

Here are 20 warning signs of cancer you should be aware of by Sunrise oncology a cancer hospital in Mumbai

1. Unexplained Weight Loss: A sudden and unexplained drop in weight can be an early sign of various types of cancer, including stomach, lung, and pancreatic cancers. If you notice a significant weight loss without any changes in your diet or exercise routine, it’s worth getting checked by a healthcare professional.

2. Persistent Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired despite getting enough rest can indicate cancers such as leukemia, colon cancer, or stomach cancer. Persistent fatigue is often one of the earliest signs and can be quite debilitating.

3. Pain: Chronic pain that doesn’t go away and cannot be explained by other conditions might be a sign of cancer. For instance, back pain can be linked to colon or ovarian cancer, while persistent headaches might be associated with brain tumors.

4. Fever: A prolonged or recurrent fever that just doesn’t go can be a sign of cancer, particularly blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma. This occurs as the body’s immune response is triggered.

5. Skin Changes: Be on the lookout for changes in your skin, such as new growths, sores that do not heal, or changes in existing moles. These can be indicative of skin cancer.

6. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits: Any persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or changes in the consistency of your stool, can be a warning sign of colorectal cancer. Similarly, changes in bladder function can be related to bladder or prostate cancer.

7. Persistent Cough or Hoarseness: A cough that doesn’t go away or a hoarse voice that lasts more than a few weeks can be a sign of lung or throat cancer.

8. Difficulty Swallowing: Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or a sensation that food is stuck in your throat or chest can be a symptom of esophageal, stomach, or throat cancer.

9. Unexplained Bleeding: Unexplained bleeding can be a major red flag. This includes blood in the urine, stool, or from the vagina (other than during a menstrual cycle). Blood in the stool could indicate colorectal cancer, while blood in the urine might be a sign of bladder or kidney cancer.

10. Lumps or Thickening: Any new lump or thickening in the breast, testicles, lymph nodes, or other parts of the body can be a sign of cancer. Breast lumps can indicate breast cancer, while testicular lumps can signal testicular cancer.

11. Indigestion or Difficulty Eating: Persistent indigestion, stomach discomfort, or difficulty eating can be an early sign of stomach cancer. These stomach cancer symptoms should not be ignored, especially if they persist.

12. Persistent Bloating: Bloating that doesn’t go away can be linked to ovarian cancer. It might be worth consulting a doctor if you frequently feel bloated without any apparent reason.

13. Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) can be a liver or pancreatic cancer symptom. Jaundice occurs when cancer blocks the bile duct, causing bile to build up in the liver and enter the bloodstream.

14. Changes in the Mouth: White or red patches on the gums, tongue, or inside the mouth can be indicative of oral cancer. Non-healing sores in the mouth can also be a warning sign.

15. Persistent Heartburn: Chronic heartburn or acid reflux can be a sign of stomach or esophageal cancer. If over-the-counter medications aren’t helping, it’s time to see a healthcare provider.

16. Unexplained Night Sweats: Night sweats that are not related to menopause, infections, or other medical conditions can be a symptom of certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma.

17. Itchy or Irritated Skin: Persistent itching or skin irritation, especially in areas with no rash, can be a sign of lymphoma or other cancers.

18. Changes in the Breast: Apart from lumps, any changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breasts, including dimpling of the skin, inverted nipples, or unusual discharge, should be checked for breast cancer.

19. Abdominal Pain and Swelling: Persistent abdominal pain and swelling can be associated with cancers of the liver, pancreas, or stomach. These stomach cancer symptoms often overlap with other gastrointestinal issues but require medical attention if persistent.

20. Trouble Breathing: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath can be a symptom of lung cancer. If you experience sudden or unexplained breathing issues, seeking medical advice is crucial.

Awareness of these warning signs is crucial in the early detection and treatment of cancer. While these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cancer, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of them persistently. Remember, early detection can save lives.