7 Cancer Symptoms Women Shouldn’t Ignore
Some symptoms are easy to identify as potential serious health problems while others are not. So it’s better to know your body, and if you notice something unusual, go to the doctor. Here are some of the cancer symptoms that every woman shouldn’t ignore:
Unexplained Weight Loss
A sudden decrease in weight can be concerning if you’re doing nothing to lose weight. If you start to lose weight suddenly without making any changes to your diet, consult a doctor. Uncertain weight loss has been considered as one of the major signs of cancer. A few other causes of weight loss can be:
- Celiac Disease
- Cancer
- Thyroid Disease
- Diabetes
- HIV/AIDS
- Heart Disease
Loss of Appetite Or Feeling Full All The Time
You don’t feel hungry anymore? Or constantly feeling full? Consult with your doctor ASAP as these appetite changes may be symptoms of ovarian cancer.
Constant Fatigue
Modern lifestyle can lead to reduced sleep and increased tiredness.A busy week can wear out anyone and can lead to constant fatigue which can be cured with little rest. But if fatigue is interfering with your work or leisure activities, stop blaming your hectic life and see your doctor.
Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
Do you know? More than 90% of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer experience irregular vaginal bleeding. If you have already undergone menopause, spotting can be a major concern. Bleeding after menopause is not normal and can be because of many reasons. Soit’s better to visit your doctor as it can be a sign of endometrial cancer.
Bloated Belly
Belly bloating is common during menstrual cycle. There are some foods that can make you feel bloated for one or two days. However, if you feel bloated for more than two weeks or after your period ends, it could be a sign of ovarian cancer. A few other symptoms of ovarian cancer are:
- Feeling difficulty in eating
- A persistent lack of energy
- Needing to urinate frequently
Bloody Or Black Stools
Stool color depends on the food you eat and drugs you take. For an instance, if you’re taking iron supplements, your stool may turn black or tarry. But if it continues for many days, make sure to check with your doctor.
- Black stool suggests you have a bleed in your upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
- Maroon-colored or bloody stool suggests a bleed lower in the GI tract.
A few other reasons for bleeding can be:
- Hemorrhoids
- Ulcers
- Diverticulitis
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Cancer
- Other GI Conditions
Swollen Or Discolored Breast
Breast swelling in women before PMS or during pregnancy is common. However, if you experience unusual swelling, talk to your doctor. Swelling or discoloration (purple or red spots) may be signs of inflammatory breast cancer.It is important to see your doctor if you see skin changes or lumps in your breast.
Experiencing one or more symptoms doesn’t mean that you have cancer. But if they last for more than two weeks, it’s better to consult your doctor and get tested. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
