A leading cancer charity is warning people to get these six symptoms checked as they are “red flag” early signs of the deadly disease.
Cancer is a serious condition that occurs when abnormal cells grow and divide uncontrollably. They can then spread to other tissues and organs.
There are more than 200 types of cancer that can affect the body. Often the symptoms can be linked to where in the body the cancer is growing.
However, there are also some more general signs to look out for that apply to various forms of cancer. According to Cancer Research UK, there are six such signs to pay attention to.
Although these symptoms could also be linked to something less serious, it is still worth getting them checked out, experts at the charity say.
Cancer Research UK says: “We have listed some key signs and symptoms you can be aware of.
“Most signs and symptoms listed here are caused by something less serious than cancer – but if it is cancer, spotting it early can make a real difference.
“If you notice any changes that are not normal for you, or something that won’t go away – don’t ignore it, speak to your doctor. Whether it’s on this list or not, get it checked out.”
It adds: “It’s important to be aware of what is normal for you and speak to your doctor if you notice any unusual changes or something that won’t go away.
“This can help to diagnose cancer at an early stage, when treatment is more likely to be successful.”
The six signs to look for include:
- Very heavy night sweats or fever
- Fatigue
- Unexplained bleeding or bruising
- Unexplained pain or ache
- Unexplained weight loss
- Unusual lump or swelling anywhere.
Very heavy night sweats or fever
This can be caused by infections or a side effect of certain medications. It’s also often experienced by women around the time of the menopause.
“But speak to your doctor if you have very heavy, drenching night sweats, or an unexplained fever,” Cancer Research UK warns.
Fatigue
There are several reasons why you may feel more tired than usual. This could be linked to stress or trouble with sleeping.
However, unexplained fatigue or feeling tired all the time could be a sign that something is seriously wrong.
Unexplained bleeding or bruising
“Unexplained bleeding or bruising when you have not hurt yourself is important to get checked out by your doctor,” Cancer Research UK says.
This includes blood in your poo or pee, as well as vomiting or coughing up blood, and any unexplained vaginal bleeding between periods, after sex or after the menopause.
The charity adds: “No matter how much blood or what colour it is (blood can be red, or a darker colour like brown or black), speak to your doctor.”
Unexplained pain or ache
As we age it’s more common to experience aches and pains, but “unexplained or persistent” pain anywhere in the body could be a sign of something more serious.
Unexplained weight loss
Small weight changes over time are quite normal, but if you have lost a noticeable amount of weight without trying to, you should speak to your doctor.
Unusual lump or swelling anywhere
Cancer Research UK says: “Persistent lumps or swelling in any part of your body should be taken seriously.”
This includes any lumps in the neck, armpit, stomach, groin, chest, breast, or testicle.