Cancer is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It can affect anyone at any age, and can go undetected for years.
Women need to be aware of the early signs of cancer, as early detection can increase the chances of successful treatment and save lives. Here are 10 early signs of cancer that women can miss:.
1. Unexplained Weight Loss
If you are losing weight without trying to, this could be an early sign of cancer. Unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of many different types of cancer, including ovarian, pancreatic, and lung cancer.
If you have lost 10 pounds or more in a short period of time, you should see your doctor.
2. Fatigue
Feeling tired all the time is a common symptom of cancer. Fatigue is often the result of the body trying to fight off the cancer cells. If you are experiencing extreme fatigue that is not alleviated by rest or sleep, you should see your doctor.
3. Changes in the Skin
Changes in the skin can be an early sign of skin cancer. Look for moles that are changing in size, shape, or color. If you see any new or unusual moles, or if you have a mole that is bleeding or not healing, you should see your doctor.
4. Abdominal Pain or Bloating
Abdominal pain or bloating can be an early sign of ovarian cancer. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your lower abdomen, or if your belly is swelling or bloating, you should see your doctor.
Other symptoms of ovarian cancer can include difficulty eating, feeling full quickly, and changes in bowel habits.
5. Irregular Periods
If you are experiencing irregular periods, this could be an early sign of uterine or cervical cancer. If you are premenopausal and have missed two or more periods in a row, you should see your doctor.
Postmenopausal women who experience any bleeding or spotting should also see their doctor.
6. Difficulty Swallowing
If you are having difficulty swallowing, this could be an early sign of esophageal cancer. Common symptoms of esophageal cancer can include difficulty swallowing, pain when swallowing, and chest pain or discomfort.
If you have any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor.
7. Chronic Cough or Hoarseness
A chronic cough or hoarseness that persists for more than a few weeks could be an early sign of lung cancer. If you are experiencing any breathing difficulties, chest pain or discomfort, or if you are coughing up blood, you should see your doctor.
8. Pain or Discomfort During Sex
Pain or discomfort during sex can be an early sign of cervical cancer. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort during sex, or have any unusual discharge or bleeding, you should see your doctor.
9. Changes in the Breast
Changes in the breast can be an early sign of breast cancer. Look for lumps, redness, dimpling, or changes in the nipple or areola. If you notice any changes, you should see your doctor.
10. Urinary Changes
Changes in urination can be an early sign of bladder or kidney cancer. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort while urinating, frequent urination, or blood in your urine, you should see your doctor.
Conclusion
It is important for women to be aware of the early signs of cancer, as early detection can increase the chances of successful treatment and save lives. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.