The chances of a better outcome often increase greatly according to how soon a cancer is diagnosed so that treatment can be carried out as early as possible.
The use of innovative sciences such as liquid biopsy to help identify tumor cells circulating in your body has proved to be effective in achieving early detection. In addition, there are a variety of subtle signs that provide an early warning of cancer and need to be acted upon.
Here are some pointers on what to look for.
Have your bathroom habits changed?
If you find that you are urinating more frequently or your stools have changed color, these are classic warning signs that should be heeded.
Any significant changes in bodily functions need to be investigated urgently.
Significant period pain or cramps
Women tend to have irregular periods from time to time. However, if there are persistent changes in your cycle and a noticeable increase in pain levels, these need to be checked out.
Check your breasts
Any new lumps or discoloration around the nipple area should not be ignored.
It should be remembered that although breast cancer is far more prevalent in women, men are also prone, and the same rules apply about checking for lumps and changes.
A cough that won’t go away
It’s easy to dismiss a cough as temporary. But if the coughing persists beyond a couple of weeks, get it checked by a doctor.
You bruise more easily than you used to
Bumps and bruises are commonplace. Excessive bruising is not so normal, especially if you start to notice a lot of unexplained bruises.
This can be a sign of blood cancers such as Leukemia.
A headache that you can’t get rid of
Most headaches should respond to standard medications and the pain should go away after a short while.
A persistent headache that doesn’t respond to medications needs investigating.
Are you prone to mouth sores?
If you are a smoker or a drinker you have to be particularly vigilant when it comes to persistent sores and lesions in your mouth.
Regular sores and oral changes are potential indications of a cancer developing.
Prone to regular fevers or infections?
If you seem to be transcending from one infection and fever to the next with no respite between that could be an indication that there is a problem with your immune system.
Lymphoma and Leukemia can often be revealed as a result of a susceptible immune system.
Changes to your skin
Get in the habit of checking your body for changes, including the birthmarks and blemishes you know about.
If a mole is changing size or shape or you develop a new blemish it is always wise to get it investigated.
Always feeling tired and have low energy levels?
The pace of modern life is bound to make you feel tired. If you are persistently feeling that way it could potentially be a sign of leukemia or Lymphoma.
Some cancers are not always easy to spot until they develop further. However, many provide an early warning sign that something is not right with your body.
Learn how to look out for these problems and get any signs or symptoms checked by a medical professional as early as possible.
The content is intended to augment, not replace, information provided by your clinician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Reading this information does not create or replace a doctor-patient relationship or consultation. If required, please contact your doctor or other health care provider to assist you in interpreting any of this information, or in applying the information to your individual needs.
