20 Fun Facts About Cancer Symptoms

20 Fun Facts About Cancer Symptoms

20 Fun Facts About Cancer Symptoms

Cancer is a complex disease and can cause a wide variety of symptoms. Some of the most common general symptoms of cancer include:

• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss or gain
• Fever
• Night sweats
• Pain
• Skin changes, such as lumps, moles that change appearance, or yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Changes in bowel or bladder habits
• Persistent cough or trouble breathing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Hoarseness
• Persistent indigestion or discomfort after eating
• Persistent, unexplained muscle or joint pain
• Unexplained bleeding or bruising

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions. However, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis. Early detection and treatment of cancer is essential for improving the chances of a successful outcome. These symptoms are discussed in detail below:

Cancer Symptoms: Fatigue

Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of cancer, affecting up to 65% of people with the disease [What is cancer fatigue? – Cancer Research UK]. It’s a deep, overwhelming tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest.

Here are some characteristics of cancer-related fatigue:

• Severity: It can range from mild to severe, making it difficult to carry out daily activities.
• Persistence: It doesn’t improve with rest or sleep.
• Interference with daily life: It can significantly impact your ability to work, socialize, and enjoy hobbies.

Cancer-related fatigue can be caused by several factors, including:

• The cancer itself: Cancer cells use your body’s nutrients to grow, which can leave you feeling depleted.
• Treatment side effects: Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery can all cause fatigue.
• Emotional stress: Coping with a cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally draining.
• Anemia: Cancer can cause a decrease in red blood cells, which can lead to fatigue.
• Sleep problems: Many people with cancer experience difficulty sleeping, which can worsen fatigue.

If you are experiencing fatigue, it’s important to see your doctor to determine the cause. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for cancer-related fatigue, but there are ways to manage it, such as:

• Lifestyle changes: Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly can all help improve energy levels.
• Medications: In some cases, medications can help to manage fatigue.
• Energy conservation techniques: Learning how to pace yourself and conserve your energy can help you to get through the day.
• Counseling: Coping with cancer can be stressful, and counseling can help you to manage stress and improve your emotional well-being.

Also Read: What causes poor brain health? What you need to know

Cancer Symptoms: Unexplained weight loss or gain

Unexplained weight loss or gain can be a symptom of cancer, but it’s important to remember it can also be caused by other factors. Here’s a breakdown of what to know:

Unexplained Weight Loss:

• Red flags: If you’ve lost 5% or more of your body weight in 6-12 months without trying, it’s best to see a doctor [WebMD unexplained weight loss]. This is especially concerning if you’re experiencing other cancer symptoms like fatigue, pain, or changes in appetite.
• Why it happens: Cancer cells burn more energy than healthy cells, leading to weight loss. Cancers of the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, and lungs are more likely to cause weight loss as they can affect your ability to eat or absorb nutrients.

Unexplained Weight Gain:

• Less common: Weight gain is less frequently associated with cancer, but some tumors can cause weight gain due to hormonal changes or fluid retention.
• Other causes: Sudden weight gain is more likely caused by other factors like lifestyle changes, medications, or underlying medical conditions like thyroid problems.

Here are some tips:

• Track your weight: Monitor your weight regularly to identify any unexplained changes.
• See a doctor: If you’re concerned about weight loss or gain, especially with other symptoms, consult a doctor to determine the cause. They will likely ask about your medical history, diet, and lifestyle habits before recommending tests.

Cancer Symptoms: Fever

Fever is a rise in your body’s temperature. It’s a common sign that something is wrong, and while it can be caused by cancer, it’s more often caused by other factors. Here’s what you need to know about fever and cancer:

How Common is Fever in Cancer?

• Fever is not a typical early sign of cancer.
• It’s more likely in later stages or when cancer has spread (metastasized).
• However, some blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma can cause fever even in earlier stages.

What Causes Fever in Cancer Patients?

There are two main reasons why someone with cancer might have a fever:

• Infection: Cancer treatments can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections which often cause fever.
• The cancer itself: In some cases, the cancer itself can release substances that trigger a fever response.

What to Do if You Have a Fever and Cancer

• See your doctor right away. A fever in a cancer patient can be serious and requires prompt medical attention. Your doctor will determine the cause and recommend the best course of treatment.
• Don’t try to treat the fever yourself with over-the-counter medications without consulting your doctor.

Also Read: How can I improve my brain health? What you need to know

Cancer Symptoms: Night sweats

Night sweats, waking up drenched in sweat, can be a disturbing and uncomfortable experience. While they can be caused by a variety of factors, they are sometimes a symptom of cancer. Here’s what you need to know about night sweats and cancer:

Night Sweats and Cancer:

• Not specific: Night sweats are a common symptom in many conditions, not just cancer. They can be caused by hormonal changes, medications, infections, and anxiety.
• Red flags: However, some characteristics of night sweats might be more concerning regarding cancer:
  • Severity: Drenching sweats that soak your clothes and bedding are more concerning than mild sweating.
  • Frequency: Night sweats that happen frequently and disrupt your sleep might be a cause for concern.
  • Accompanying symptoms: If you have night sweats along with other cancer symptoms like fever, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue, it’s important to see a doctor.

Why Cancer Can Cause Night Sweats:

• The exact reasons aren’t fully understood, but several factors might be involved:
  • Body’s response to cancer: The body’s fight against cancer cells can cause internal temperature fluctuations leading to sweating.
  • Hormonal changes: Some cancers can disrupt hormone production, triggering night sweats similar to hot flashes in menopause.
  • Cancer-related fevers: When cancer causes a fever, sweating is the body’s natural way to cool down.

What to Do if You Have Night Sweats:

• See a doctor: If you’re experiencing frequent or severe night sweats, especially with other concerning symptoms, consult a doctor to determine the cause.
• Doctor will consider: Your medical history, medications, and other symptoms to rule out other causes. Tests might be needed depending on the situation.

Cancer Symptoms: Pain

Pain is a common symptom of cancer, but it doesn’t mean everyone with cancer will experience it. It’s important to understand the different types of cancer pain and what causes them.

Types of Cancer Pain:

• Tumor-related pain: This is the most common type of cancer pain and occurs when a tumor presses on bones, nerves, or other organs.
• Pain from treatment: Some cancer treatments, like surgery, radiation therapy, and certain medications, can cause pain.
• Pain from nerve damage: Tumors or cancer treatments can damage nerves, leading to chronic pain, numbness, or tingling.
• Bone pain: Cancer that spreads to the bones can cause significant pain.

Causes of Cancer Pain:

• Direct pressure: A growing tumor can press on nearby tissues and nerves, causing pain.
• Inflammation: Tumors can trigger inflammation around them, leading to pain.
• Substance release: Cancer cells can release chemicals that irritate nerves and cause pain.
• Damaged nerves: Tumors or treatment can damage nerves, leading to chronic pain.

How is Cancer Pain Managed?

The good news is that cancer pain is treatable. There are various approaches to manage it, and the best course of action depends on the type and cause of pain. Here are some common pain management strategies:

• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription pain medication, and medications to target specific types of pain can be used.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery to remove all or part of the tumor can help alleviate pain.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation can be used to shrink tumors and reduce pain.
• Nerve blocks: Injections to block pain signals from specific nerves can provide relief.
• Physical therapy: Exercises and physical therapy can help improve mobility and manage pain.

When to See a Doctor:

If you are experiencing any pain, it’s important to see your doctor to determine the cause and get appropriate treatment. Don’t hesitate to seek help if:

• The pain is severe or interferes with your daily activities.
• Over-the-counter pain medications aren’t effective.
• The pain is worsening.

Resources:

• American Cancer Society: Pain Caused by Cancer | Cancer.org
• National Cancer Institute: Pain Management

Cancer Symptoms: Changes in bowel or bladder habits

Changes in bowel or bladder habits can be concerning symptoms, and while they don’t necessarily indicate cancer, it’s important to get them checked out by a doctor. Here’s what you need to know about these changes and how they might relate to cancer.

Bowel Habit Changes:

• Symptoms to watch for:
  • Persistent constipation or diarrhea
  • A change in stool consistency (looser or harder stools)
  • A change in stool frequency (going more often or less often than usual)
  • Feeling like you haven’t emptied your bowels completely
  • Bleeding from your rectum or blood in your stool
• Why it might be cancer: These changes can be caused by tumors in the colon or rectum blocking the passage of stool or by cancer affecting the bowels themselves.

Bladder Habit Changes:

• Symptoms to watch for:
  • More frequent urination, including at night
  • Difficulty starting or stopping urination
  • Burning or pain during urination
  • Passing blood in your urine
• Why it might be cancer: These changes can be caused by tumors in the bladder or urethra blocking the flow of urine or by cancer affecting the bladder or urinary system.

Important to Remember:

• Many other conditions can cause these changes, so it doesn’t necessarily mean cancer.
• However, if you experience any of these symptoms persistently, it’s important to see a doctor to determine the cause and get appropriate treatment.

Early detection is key: Early detection and treatment of cancer can significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome.

Here are some resources you can visit to learn more:

• American Cancer Society: Bowel and Bladder Problems | Diarrhea and Urine Retention
• National Cancer Institute: Bladder Cancer

Cancer Symptoms: Persistent cough or trouble breathing

A persistent cough or trouble breathing can be a cause for concern, and while it doesn’t always signal cancer, it’s important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis. Here’s what you need to know about these symptoms and how they might relate to lung cancer:

Persistent Cough:

• Characteristics: A cough that lasts for more than 8 weeks is considered persistent. It can be dry (without mucus) or productive (with mucus).
• Why it happens: Lung cancer can irritate airways and trigger a cough reflex. Tumors can also block airways or cause fluid buildup in the lungs, making breathing difficult and leading to a cough.

Trouble Breathing (Shortness of Breath):

• Symptoms: Shortness of breath can feel like difficulty catching your breath, tightness in your chest, or a need to use extra effort to breathe.
• Why it happens: Similar to a cough, lung cancer can cause shortness of breath by blocking airways or affecting lung function.

Other Warning Signs:

• Coughing up blood or rust-colored mucus
• Chest pain, especially when coughing or breathing deeply
• Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
• Hoarseness
• Frequent chest infections

Important to Remember:

• These symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions, like bronchitis, asthma, or pneumonia.
• However, if you experience any of these symptoms persistently, especially if you’re a smoker or have a history of smoking, it’s crucial to see a doctor to rule out lung cancer or other serious illnesses.

Early detection is key: Early diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer is essential for improving the chances of a successful outcome.

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Cancer Symptoms: Difficulty swallowing

Difficulty swallowing, also medically known as dysphagia, can be a symptom of cancer, but it also has many other causes. Here’s what you need to know about swallowing difficulties and how they might relate to cancer:

Symptoms of Difficulty Swallowing:

• Feeling like food gets stuck in your throat or chest
• Pain when swallowing
• Choking or coughing while eating
• Drooling
• Frequent heartburn or indigestion
• Sensation of not being able to completely empty your throat after swallowing

Cancer and Difficulty Swallowing:

• Cancers of the head and neck, esophagus (the swallowing tube), or upper stomach can cause difficulty swallowing by:
  • Blocking the passage of food due to tumor growth
  • Weakening or stiffening the muscles involved in swallowing
  • Affecting nerves that control swallowing

Other Causes of Difficulty Swallowing:

• Many other conditions can cause swallowing problems, including:
  • Neurological disorders like stroke or Parkinson’s disease
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Esophageal strictures (narrowing of the esophagus)
  • Muscle weakness

When to See a Doctor:

• See a doctor if you experience any difficulty swallowing that is:
  • Persistent (lasting more than a few weeks)
  • Worsening over time
  • Accompanied by other concerning symptoms like weight loss, pain, or vomiting

Early Detection is Key:

• Early diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause of swallowing difficulty can improve your quality of life and overall health outcomes.

Here are some resources you can visit to learn more:

• American Cancer Society: Swallowing Problems | Managing Cancer-related Side Effects
• National Cancer Institute: Esophageal Cancer

Cancer Symptoms: Hoarseness

Hoarseness, a rough or breathy voice, can be caused by a variety of factors, but it’s one of the most common early warning signs of laryngeal cancer, also known as voice box cancer. Here’s what you need to know about hoarseness and how it might be related to cancer:

Hoarseness as a Cancer Symptom:

• Red Flag: If you experience hoarseness that lasts for more than 3 weeks, it’s important to see a doctor to get it checked out. Early diagnosis and treatment of laryngeal cancer can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment and voice preservation.
• How it Happens: Laryngeal cancer can affect the vocal cords, leading to problems with vibration and sound production, resulting in hoarseness.

Other Causes of Hoarseness:

• It’s important to note that hoarseness is a common symptom with many other causes, such as:
  • Upper respiratory infections (colds, laryngitis)
  • Vocal strain or overuse (yelling, singing)
  • Allergies
  • Dry air
  • Smoking

When to See a Doctor:

• See a doctor if you experience hoarseness that is:
  • Persistent (lasting more than 3 weeks)
  • Accompanied by other symptoms such as:
    • Difficulty swallowing
    • Ear pain
    • A lump in your neck
    • Unexplained weight loss
    • Shortness of breath
  • Worsening over time

Early Detection is Key:

• Consulting a doctor for persistent hoarseness allows for early detection and diagnosis of potential causes, including laryngeal cancer. Early intervention can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

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Cancer Symptoms: Persistent indigestion or discomfort after eating

Persistent indigestion or discomfort after eating can be a frustrating and worrying symptom. While it can be caused by several factors, it’s important to be aware that it can also be a sign of certain cancers. Here’s what you need to know:

Indigestion and Discomfort:

• This can encompass a variety of feelings after eating, including:
  • Heartburn
  • Bloating
  • Feeling full too quickly
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain

Cancer and Indigestion:

• Several cancers can cause indigestion or discomfort after eating. Some possibilities include:
  • Stomach cancer: This cancer can cause irritation and blockage in the stomach, leading to indigestion symptoms.
  • Esophageal cancer: This cancer can affect the tube that connects your throat to your stomach, making it difficult for food to pass through and causing discomfort.
  • Pancreatic cancer: The pancreas plays a role in digestion, and tumors in the pancreas can disrupt this process, leading to indigestion.

Other Causes of Indigestion:

• It’s important to remember that many other factors can cause indigestion, such as:
  • Overeating: Eating too much food can overwhelm your digestive system.
  • Certain foods: Spicy, greasy, or acidic foods can trigger indigestion in some people.
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): This condition causes stomach acid to back up into the esophagus, leading to heartburn and other symptoms.
  • Peptic ulcers: These are sores in the lining of the stomach or duodenum (first part of the small intestine) that can cause pain and discomfort.

When to See a Doctor:

• See a doctor if you experience persistent indigestion or discomfort after eating, especially if it’s accompanied by other concerning symptoms like:
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Bleeding in your stool
  • Feeling tired all the time

Early Detection is Key:

• Early diagnosis and treatment of any underlying cause of indigestion, including cancer, can significantly improve your health outcomes.
• Don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor about any persistent digestive issues you’re experiencing.

Cancer Symptoms: Persistent, unexplained muscle or joint pain

Persistent, unexplained muscle or joint pain can be a worrying symptom, but it’s important to remember it has many causes besides cancer. Here’s what you need to know about muscle/joint pain and how it might be related to cancer:

Muscle/Joint Pain and Cancer:

• Uncommon: Persistent muscle or joint pain is not a typical early warning sign of cancer.
• More likely in advanced stages: It becomes more common in later stages of cancer, especially when cancer spreads (metastasizes) to bones or tissues near bones.
• Possible Causes: Cancer-related muscle/joint pain can arise from:
  • Bone metastases: Cancer that spreads to bones can cause bone pain and tenderness.
  • Substance release: Some cancers can release chemicals into the bloodstream that cause general muscle aches.
  • Hypercalcemia: Certain cancers can increase calcium levels in the blood, leading to muscle weakness and bone pain.
  • Treatment side effects: Some cancer treatments, like chemotherapy, can cause muscle and joint pain.

Other Causes of Muscle/Joint Pain:

• There are many more common reasons for muscle/joint pain, such as:
  • Overuse injuries: Strains, sprains, and repetitive stress injuries can cause muscle and joint pain.
  • Arthritis: This is a group of conditions causing inflammation and pain in the joints.
  • Fibromyalgia: This chronic condition leads to widespread muscle pain and tenderness.
  • Infections: Viral or bacterial infections can cause muscle aches.

When to See a Doctor:

• See a doctor if you experience persistent muscle or joint pain, especially if it’s accompanied by other concerning symptoms like:
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fever
  • Night sweats
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Bone tenderness or swelling

Early Detection is Key:

• Early diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause of your pain is important for managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life.
• While cancer is a possibility, it’s less likely than other causes. A doctor can help determine the cause and recommend the best course of treatment.

Here are some resources you can visit to learn more:

• National Cancer Institute: Bone Cancer

Cancer Symptoms: Unexplained bleeding or bruising

Unexplained bleeding or bruising can be a scary symptom, but it’s important to remember it has many causes, some serious and some benign. Here’s what you need to know about unexplained bleeding or bruising and how it might be related to cancer:

Unexplained Bleeding:

• This can include bleeding from your:
  • Nose (frequent nosebleeds)
  • Gums
  • Vagina (between periods or after menopause)
  • Rectum (bright red blood in your stool or blood coating your stool)
  • Anywhere else on your body, such as under the skin

Unexplained Bruising:

• This refers to bruises that appear without any memory of bumping or injuring yourself.
• They may be small and easy to miss, or large and dark purple.

Cancer and Bleeding/Bruising:

• Unexplained bleeding or bruising can be a sign of several cancers, including:
  • Leukemia: This blood cancer affects blood cell production and can lead to easy bruising or bleeding.
  • Lymphoma: These cancers of the lymphatic system can also affect blood clotting and cause abnormal bleeding.
  • Cancers that have spread (metastasized): Cancer that spreads to organs like the liver or brain can disrupt blood clotting and lead to bleeding problems.

Other Causes of Bleeding/Bruising:

• There are many other reasons why you might experience unexplained bleeding or bruising, such as:
  • Medications: Certain medications, like blood thinners or aspirin, can increase your risk of bleeding.
  • Medical conditions: Some conditions like liver disease or inherited bleeding disorders can cause abnormal bleeding or bruising.
  • Vitamin deficiencies: Vitamin K deficiency can impair blood clotting and lead to easy bruising.
  • Minor injuries: You may not always remember every bump or bruise, especially minor ones.

When to See a Doctor:

• See a doctor if you experience any unexplained bleeding or bruising, especially if it’s accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as:
  • Fatigue
  • Unexplained weight loss or gain
  • Fever
  • Night sweats
  • Persistent cough or trouble breathing
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Lumps or bumps anywhere on your body

Early Detection is Key:

• Early diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause of bleeding or bruising is important for your health.
• A doctor can perform tests to determine the cause and recommend the best course of treatment.

Here are some resources you can visit to learn more about cancer symptoms:

• American Cancer Society: Signs and Symptoms of Cancer | Do I Have Cancer?
• Mayo Clinic: Cancer – Symptoms and causes