Cancer is one of the deadliest diseases that affect millions of people worldwide. It is a term used to describe a group of diseases where abnormal cells grow and divide uncontrollably, invading and destroying healthy tissues and organs in the body.

Sadly, symptoms of cancer are often subtle and may go unnoticed for a long time. In some cases, people may even mistake them for other less severe health conditions. Nevertheless, it is essential to understand the early warning signs of cancer so that it can be detected and treated early.

Here are two subtle symptoms of cancer that you should watch out for:.

1. Unexplained Weight Loss

Weight loss is an excellent goal for many people, especially those struggling with overweight or obesity. However, losing weight without trying is a red flag for cancer.

When cancer cells grow and multiply rapidly, they use up a lot of energy in the body and cause a significant loss of appetite. Therefore, if you experience sudden and unexplained weight loss, you should see a doctor right away. Unexplained weight loss is usually defined as a loss of ten pounds or more that occurs without any change in diet or exercise routine.

It is worth noting that not all types of cancer cause weight loss. Some cancers, such as ovarian and pancreatic cancer, may lead to weight gain. Therefore, it is crucial to be mindful of other symptoms that may occur alongside weight loss.

For instance, if you experience abdominal pain, bloating, and difficulty eating, you may be suffering from ovarian cancer. On the other hand, if you have upper abdominal pain, nausea, and yellowing skin, you may be having pancreatic cancer. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience these symptoms.

2. Fatigue

Everyone feels tired or sluggish from time to time. However, if you are feeling exhausted even after getting enough rest or sleep, it could be an early sign of cancer.

Fatigue is a common symptom of many types of cancer, including leukemia, colon cancer, and lung cancer. In most cases, fatigue is a result of cancer cells using up the body’s energy reserves and affecting hormones and metabolism.

Fatigue caused by cancer is often described as different from normal tiredness. It is a persistent feeling of exhaustion that does not go away even after rest or sleep. You may also feel weak, dizzy, or lightheaded.

Furthermore, fatigue may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as night sweats, fever, and unexplained pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they last for a long time, see a doctor for a diagnosis.

Conclusion

Early detection is crucial in the treatment of cancer. Therefore, knowing the subtle symptoms of cancer can increase the chances of detecting it early and saving your life.

Unexplained weight loss and fatigue are two of the most common subtle symptoms of cancer. However, they may also be due to other non-cancerous health conditions. Therefore, if you experience any of these symptoms or others that concern you, visit a doctor for a thorough evaluation.