General Symptoms of Cancer
It is important to know what some of the general (nonspecific) signs and symptoms of cancer are. They include unexplained weight loss, fever, fatigue, pain, and changes in the skin. Of course, it's important to remember that having any of these does not necessarily mean that cancer is present--there are many other conditions that can cause these signs and symptoms as well.
Unexplained weight loss: Most people with cancer will lose weight at some time with their disease. An unexplained (unintentional) weight loss of about 10 pounds may be the first sign of cancer, particularly cancers of the pancreas, stomach, esophagus, or lung.
Fever: Fever is very common with cancer, but is more often seen in advanced disease. Almost all patients with cancer will have fever at some time, particularly if the cancer or its treatment affects the immune system and reduces resistance to infection. Less often, fever may be an early sign of cancer, such as with Hodgkin's disease.
Fatigue: Fatigue may be a significant symptom as the cancer progresses. It may occur early, however, especially if the cancer is causing a chronic loss of blood, as in some colon or stomach cancers.
Pain: Pain may be an early sign with some cancers, such as bone cancers or testicular cancer. Most often, however, pain is a symptom of advanced disease.
Skin changes: In addition to cancers of the skin, some internal cancers can produce visible skin signs such as darkening (hyperpigmentation) yellowing (jaundice), reddening (erythema), itching, or excessive hair growth.
Some tips for early detection:
- Irritable cough or hoarse voice
- A wound that does not heal easily
- Unusual bleeding
- Difficulty in swallowing or indigestion
- A definite change to a mole or wart
- Change in bowel movement
- Growth of a lump in any part of the body
- Frequent fever without a virus
- Unusual loss of body weight
If any of the above symptoms continue for more than two weeks consult your doctor or the concerned physicians at our centre. Please keep in mind that these symptoms can be may not necessarily be related to cancer and could result from any other disease.
Please Note:
The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only. Seek qualified medical advice if you exhibit any of the symptoms described on this site.
