Cancer symptoms refer to the physical or emotional changes that can be experienced by a person as a result of cancer. These symptoms can vary depending on the type of cancer, its stage, and its location in the body.
Some common symptoms of cancer include:
- Fatigue: Feeling tired and lacking energy even after getting adequate rest.
- Pain: Persistent pain that does not go away even with medication or treatment.
- Changes in skin: Changes in the color, texture, or appearance of the skin, such as the development of new moles or growths.
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits: Unusual changes in bowel movements, such as constipation or diarrhea, or frequent urination.
- Unexplained weight loss: A significant weight loss that occurs without any apparent reason or effort.
- Difficulty swallowing: Difficulty in swallowing food or drinks, which may be indicative of a throat or esophageal cancer.
- Persistent cough: A cough that lasts for an extended period, especially if it is accompanied by chest pain or blood in the sputum.
- Changes in menstrual cycles: Irregular or heavy menstrual cycles in women may be a sign of reproductive cancer.
- Lumps or masses: Any lump or growth that can be felt or seen, especially in the breast, testicles, or lymph nodes.
It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions and are not always indicative of cancer. However, if a person experiences any of these symptoms or has concerns about their health, they should seek medical attention to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.