7 early warning signs of cancer you shouldn’t ignore – The Times of India

Examining the main cancer symptoms and indicators is necessary. Most people resort to asking Google about any odd symptom they notice. This practice often ends up with scary results. However, if you see anything out of the ordinary, let your doctor know because early detection of cancer can save lives. Here are some early warning signs of cancer you shouldn’t ignore:

1. Any swelling in the body that is increasing in size

Any bump, swelling, or outgrowth on any part of the body that is slowly increasing in size should not be taken lightly. Initially, it may not be painful, but eventually it could be. Any such continuous swelling should be examined by a doctor.

2. Non-healing ulcers or wounds

If any part of the body has a wound or ulcer that does not heal within reasonable time, it can be a cause for alarm. The normal thing about wounds is that they start healing after some time. A doctor should be examined, however, if the wound remains open, deteriorates, or shows no improvement. It might imply a serious underlying condition, including cancer.

3. Unexplained bleeding from any part of the body

Dr. Vaibhav Choudhary, Consultant, Medical Oncology, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, says, “Any kind of bleeding without any known reason or cause, such as coughing up blood, blood in stool or urine, or bleeding from any part of the body, should not be neglected. Bleeding from a known injury is usual, but spontaneous bleeding is not, and hence one must seek medical care.”

4. Change in the nipple or any abnormal discharge

Any change in the nipple, which includes a change in position, inflammation, inverted nipple, alteration in the size of the nipple, or the presence of any unusual discharge from the nipple, should not be taken lightly. Such changes are often early signs of breast cancer and thus should prompt a visit to a doctor as soon as possible.

5. Persistent cough or unexplained hoarseness

A chronic cough that does not go away over time or hoarseness of voice should be investigated by a doctor. If there is no infection or other identifiable reason, persistent coughing can be a sign of lung cancer or other serious respiratory conditions, such as pleural disease.

6. Changes in bowel habits or unexplained constipation

Any persistent changes in bowel habits, such as prolonged constipation, diarrhea, or a change in stool consistency, should not be ignored, especially in individuals over 60 to 65 years of age. Often, increasing constipation is dismissed as a normal aging problem, but if someone who has never had such issues suddenly develops persistent constipation, it could be an early sign of colorectal cancer. Slow, gradual blood loss from colorectal cancer may be unnoticed but results in anemia, fatigue, and other signs and symptoms with time.

7. Persistent bloating or a feeling of fullness

A constant feeling of fullness or bloating in the abdomen should not be confused with simple weight gain. Many people assume that their abdomen is expanding due to an increase in body fat, but if bloating persists despite no significant dietary or lifestyle changes, it could indicate ovarian cancer or another serious condition. This is particularly concerning in postmenopausal women or those experiencing unexplained digestive discomfort.
Also, any episode of vaginal discharge or unexpected vaginal bleeding, especially following menopause, should be investigated, and cervical cancer continues to be an important cancer amongst women in India.
These are some of the most important early warning signs of cancer. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention without delay. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment, especially when cancer is diagnosed at Stage 1 or Stage 2, where it is more likely to be curable.