20 Early Signs of Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore
There is no single set of symptoms that proves your body is “fighting cancer.” Cancer symptoms vary greatly depending on the type and location of cancer, and many of these symptoms are much more commonly caused by non-cancerous conditions. Still, persistent or unexplained changes deserve medical attention.
- Unexplained weight loss — Losing weight without changing your diet or activity level can be a warning sign.
- Persistent fatigue — Extreme tiredness that doesn’t improve with adequate rest can occur with some cancers.
- An unexplained lump or swelling — A new lump in the breast, neck, armpit, abdomen, or elsewhere should be evaluated.
- Persistent or worsening pain — New pain without an obvious cause deserves attention, particularly if it doesn’t go away.
- Unexplained bleeding — Blood in stool, urine, vomit, or unexpected vaginal bleeding can have many causes but should be checked.
- Changes in bowel habits — Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or a noticeable change in stool appearance can require evaluation.
- Changes in bladder habits — Blood in the urine, pain while urinating, or persistent changes in urination should not be ignored.
- A persistent cough — A cough or hoarseness that doesn’t resolve can be associated with several conditions, including some cancers.
- Difficulty swallowing — Persistent trouble swallowing or a feeling that food is getting stuck warrants medical evaluation.
- Persistent indigestion or abdominal discomfort — Ongoing digestive symptoms can have numerous causes, but persistent changes should be investigated.
- Loss of appetite — A sustained reduction in appetite, particularly when accompanied by weight loss, can be significant.
- Persistent fever — Unexplained fever can occasionally occur with cancer, although infection is a much more common cause.
- Night sweats — Recurrent, unexplained drenching night sweats can have many causes and should be discussed with a clinician if persistent.
- Skin changes — A new or changing mole, unusual skin spot, or sore that doesn’t heal should be checked.
- Persistent bloating or abdominal swelling — Especially when new, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms.
- Repeated nausea or vomiting — Persistent unexplained vomiting requires medical assessment.
- Unexplained bruising — Frequent or unusual bruising or bleeding can sometimes be associated with blood disorders, including certain cancers.
- Persistent mouth changes — A mouth sore that doesn’t heal, persistent pain, or difficulty swallowing should be evaluated.
- Jaundice — Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes can indicate a problem involving the liver, bile ducts, or other conditions.
- Unexplained weakness or anemia — Some cancers can cause slow blood loss or affect blood-cell production, resulting in anemia, weakness, and fatigue
