Cancer...CONTINUE READING
is a deadly disease that’s caused by specific cells in the body reproducing uncontrollably, according to the NHS
. These cancerous cells can destroy the healthy tissue surrounding them – including vital organs.
It’s crucial to be aware of any subtle changes to the body, as it could be caused by something serious. But some of the most common cancer symptoms might be easily missed. Spotting the warning signs early, and subsequently starting treatment, raises your chances of making a full recovery if you’ve been diagnosed with cancer.
Some symptoms, however, might appear slightly unusual on the face of it. While not all changes are caused by cancer, it’s still worth getting checked by a doctor.
Some of the most common symptoms of cancer could be seen inside the mouth, according to UCSF Health.
Patients might develop unusual sores or lesions on the inside of their mouth, it said. These are particularly common in people who smoke or drink heavily, and usually indicate a range of different oral cancers.
Mouth cancer symptoms might also include difficulty swallowing, having a persistent ulcer, or even finding a red/white patch on the inside of the mouth.
Headaches
are almost always not serious, and get better by themselves within a few hours. But, in some cases, it could be caused by cancer.
Cancers of the brain, spinal cord, lymphoma, and even the upper throat could all lead to persistent headaches.
It’s also important to remember that some cancer treatments cause headaches as a side effect.
Speak to a doctor if you’re worried about your headaches if painkillers don’t help, or if you feel a throbbing pain at the front or side of your head.
On rare occasions, a deep discomfort inside your stomach could be caused by cancer.
UCSF Health said: “Unusual discomfort that lasts more than two weeks can be a warning sign of liver, pancreatic or various digestive system cancers.” Stomach cancer is one of the most common cancers associated with tummy aches.
It’s more likely to be caused by stomach cancer if your pain is accompanied by heartburn
, feeling very bloated, or even an unexplained loss of appetite.
Our skin changes regularly; whether it be the addition of new ageing wrinkles, or even just scratches or bruises from everyday life. But, some skin changes should never be ignored.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said: “A change in your skin is the most common sign of skin cancer. This could be a new growth, a sore that doesn’t heal, or a change in a mole.”
Patients might find their mole or spots have an irregular shape, or have an irregular border. If it changes over a period of a month, you should see a doctor.
