What signs could signal cancer?

Updated December 18, 2023
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Have you ever wondered about the signs that might hint at cancer? It's tricky because these signs often mimic other issues like a regular illness, injury, or even benign tumors. But here's the scoop: if you've been dealing with certain symptoms for a few weeks and they just won't budge, it's time to chat with your doctor. Cancer can be sneaky sometimes, not always showing up with pain. So, don't hold off until you're hurting before seeking help.

Here are a few symptoms that could possibly be linked to cancer:
Breast changes
  • Lump or firm feeling in your breast or under your arm
  • Nipple changes or discharge
  • Skin that is itchy, red, scaly, dimpled, or puckered

Bladder changes
  • Trouble urinating
  • Pain when urinating
  • Blood in the urine
  • Bleeding or bruising, for no known reason

Bowel changes 
  • Blood in the stools
  • Changes in bowel habits
  • Cough or hoarseness that does not go away

Eating problems
  • Pain after eating (heartburn or indigestion that doesn’t go away)
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Belly pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Appetite changes
  • Fatigue that is severe and lasts
  • Fever or night sweats for no known reason

Mouth changes
  • A white or red patch on the tongue or in your mouth
  • Bleeding, pain, or numbness in the lip or mouth

Neurological problems
  • Headaches
  • Seizures
  • Vision changes
  • Hearing changes
  • Drooping of the face

Skin changes
  • A flesh-colored lump that bleeds or turns scaly
  • A new mole or a change in an existing mole
  • A sore that does not heal
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)
  • Swelling or lumps anywhere such as in the neck, underarm, stomach, and groin
  • Weight gain or weight loss for no known reason

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