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All About Symptoms

General signs and symptoms of cancer can vary widely depending on the type of cancer and its location in the body. Many symptoms are also caused by other, non-cancerous conditions. It is important to see a doctor if you notice any new or persistent changes, especially if they last for several weeks. 

General Signs and Symptoms of Cancer

  • Unexplained weight loss: Losing 10 pounds or more for no clear reason can be a sign of cancer, particularly cancers of the lung, pancreas, and esophagus.

  • Persistent fatigue: Extreme tiredness that does not improve with rest may be an early sign of leukemia or lymphoma, as well as some colon or stomach cancers.

  • Fever or night sweats: Fevers or drenching night sweats that occur frequently and are not linked to an infection can be a symptom of certain blood cancers like lymphoma and leukemia.

  • Pain: Ongoing pain in a specific area that has no known cause and doesn't get better with treatment should be evaluated by a doctor.

  • Changes in skin: Watch for changes to existing moles, such as a change in shape, size, or color, or a new or unusual-looking growth. Other signs can include yellowing of the skin (jaundice), redness, or sores that do not heal.

  • Unusual lumps or swelling: A new lump or thickening anywhere in the body, such as the breast, testicles, or lymph nodes, should be checked by a doctor. 

Gastrointestinal and Urinary Changes

  • Changes in bowel habits: This includes persistent constipation or diarrhea, or a change in the size or shape of stools. These can be signs of colon cancer.

  • Blood in the stool or urine: Rectal bleeding or blood in your bowel movements should always be evaluated. The same is true for blood in your urine, which can be a sign of bladder or kidney cancer.

  • Bladder changes: Symptoms can include pain during urination, a need to urinate more often, or feeling that you can't fully empty your bladder.

  • Difficulty swallowing: Trouble swallowing that lasts for more than two weeks can be a sign of cancer of the throat, esophagus, or stomach.

  • Persistent indigestion or bloating: Unexplained stomach pain or bloating, especially if it lasts for more than two weeks, can be a sign of gastrointestinal or ovarian cancers. 

Respiratory and Mouth Symptoms

  • Nagging cough or hoarseness: A cough that doesn't go away or gets worse over time is a common sign of lung cancer. Persistent hoarseness can signal cancer of the throat or larynx.

  • Persistent sores in the mouth: Sores in the mouth or on the tongue that do not heal, especially in people who use tobacco, can be a sign of oral cancer. 

Specific Symptoms for Certain Cancers

  • Breast changes: These can include a new lump or thickening, dimpling or puckering of the skin, changes around the nipple, or unusual nipple discharge.

  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding: Bleeding between periods or after menopause, as well as any unusual discharge, should be evaluated by a doctor.

  • Testicular changes: A lump, swelling, or feeling of heaviness in a testicle can be a sign of testicular cancer. 

When to See a Doctor

  • Don't ignore persistent symptoms. Many of these symptoms are caused by less serious conditions. However, if a symptom is new, lasts for several weeks, or worsens over time, you should see a doctor for an evaluation.

  • Early detection is key. If cancer is the cause, diagnosing it early often leads to more successful treatment. 

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