Recognizing the early signs and symptoms of cancer is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
However, many symptoms can be misleading as they might resemble those of other benign conditions.
For instance, finding blood in your stool could indicate cancer, but it might also result from hemorrhoids or even just eating beetroot.
Due to such complexities, consulting a healthcare professional is essential if you have any concerning symptoms. Doctors have the expertise to differentiate between serious warnings and less significant issues.
Moreover, it’s important to note that various cancer types exhibit distinct symptoms. For instance, lung cancer will differ in its manifestations compared to pancreatic cancer.
Here are some prevalent symptoms that might suggest something else, as per Cancer Research UK.
A sudden and unexplained change in weight is a common symptom that can indicate various health issues.
This isn’t about minor weight changes, which are normal, or weight loss due to deliberate lifestyle changes.
Instead, it refers to substantial weight loss occurring unexpectedly and without an apparent reason.
“Small weight changes over time are quite normal,” Cancer Research UK explains. “But if you or other people think you have lost a noticeable amount of weight when you aren’t trying to, tell your doctor.”
Fatigue is a broad symptom that can arise from numerous causes, such as lack of sleep or depression.
However, Cancer Research UK notes that cancer is also a potential cause.
“There are lots of reasons why you may feel more tired than usual, particularly if you’re having trouble sleeping or are stressed,” the charity states.
“But if you’re feeling tired all the time, or if there is no clear reason you’re feeling tired, speak to your doctor.”
Experiencing excessive sweating, especially at night, can indicate various conditions, and it’s advisable to seek medical advice.
Cancer Research UK advises: “Sweating at night or having a high temperature (fever) can be caused by infections or a side effect of certain medications.
“It’s also often experienced by women around the time of menopause.
“But speak to your doctor if you have very heavy, drenching night sweats, or an unexplained fever.”