Cancer is a disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. While cancer can develop in any part of the body, it is more common in certain regions such as the skin, breast, lungs, colon and liver.

Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve your chances of survival, and it is essential to know the warning signs and symptoms of cancer. Here are 14 warning signs to watch out for:.

1. Unexplained weight loss

If you have lost weight suddenly without trying, it can be a cause for concern. Unintentional weight loss can be a symptom of several types of cancer including lung, pancreatic, stomach and esophageal cancer.

If you have lost 10 or more pounds without any apparent reason, it is important to see your doctor immediately.

2. Fatigue

Feeling tired or lethargic can be a symptom of many medical conditions, but it can also be a sign of cancer. Cancer-related fatigue is different than regular fatigue as it can be severe and persistent, and is not relieved by rest or sleep.

It is important to see your doctor if you have ongoing fatigue that does not improve with time.

3. Pain

Persistent pain, especially in the bones, back, abdomen or pelvis can be a symptom of cancer.

While pain can be caused by a variety of reasons, it is important to see your doctor if you have persistent pain that does not improve with over-the-counter pain medications.

4. Skin changes

Skin changes such as new moles or changes in existing moles, or changes in skin pigmentation can be a sign of skin cancer.

It is important to regularly check your skin for any changes, and to see your doctor if you notice any unusual growths or skin changes.

5. Persistent cough

A cough that persists for more than three weeks can be a symptom of lung cancer. Other symptoms can include chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor.

6. Changes in bowel or bladder habits

Changes in bowel or bladder habits such as diarrhea or constipation, blood in the stool or urine, or frequent urination can be signs of colon, bladder or prostate cancer.

It is important to see your doctor if you have any persistent changes in these areas.

7. Difficulty swallowing

Difficulty swallowing or feeling a lump in the throat can be a symptom of esophageal or throat cancer. Other symptoms can include chest pain or burning sensation.

It is important to see your doctor if you have persistent difficulty swallowing or any other symptoms.

8. Indigestion or heartburn

Occasional indigestion or heartburn is normal, but if you have persistent symptoms, it can be a sign of stomach or esophageal cancer. Other symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, or feeling full after eating only a small amount of food.

It is important to see your doctor if you have ongoing symptoms.

9. Abdominal pain or bloating

Persistent abdominal pain or bloating can be a symptom of ovarian, pancreatic or stomach cancer. Other symptoms can include feeling full after eating only a small amount, or changes in bowel or bladder habits.

It is important to see your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.

10. Bleeding

Bleeding from any part of the body can be a sign of cancer, especially if you are over the age of 50. It is important to see your doctor if you have any persistent bleeding, or if you have bleeding after menopause.

11. Difficulty urinating

Difficulty urinating can be a symptom of prostate cancer. Other symptoms can include frequent urination or having a weak urine stream. It is important to see your doctor if you have any difficulty urinating, or any other symptoms.

12. Swelling or lumps

Swelling or lumps in any part of the body can be a symptom of cancer. This can include swollen lymph nodes, breast lumps, or testicular lumps.

It is important to see your doctor if you have any new or persistent lumps or swelling in any part of your body.

13. Changes in vision or hearing

Changes in vision or hearing can be a symptom of brain cancer. Other symptoms can include headaches, seizures, or difficulty speaking. It is important to see your doctor if you have any changes in vision, hearing or any other symptoms.

14. Persistent fever or night sweats

A persistent fever or night sweats can be a symptom of leukemia or lymphoma. Other symptoms can include fatigue, unusual bleeding or bruising, or frequent infections. It is important to see your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.

Conclusion

While the above symptoms can be a sign of cancer, they can also be caused by other medical conditions. It is important to see your doctor if you have any of these symptoms, as early detection and treatment can greatly improve your chances of survival.

If you are at an increased risk of cancer due to family history or other factors, it is important to discuss these risks with your doctor and to get regular cancer screenings.