Do you have cancer? If someone asks this question, how will you answer? Certainly, I am not a doctor who can provide such information. But do you know that 70 to 80 percent of individuals ignore important signs that indicate the risk of cancer? Cancer is no longer an incurable disease, but its treatment can be extremely challenging, and there are no proven medicines for a specific stage.
In today’s era, due to better cancer screening, people diagnosed with cancer are living longer than before. Now diseases are detected and treatment is initiated before they progress further. There can be many signs of cancer, among which the most vague is weight loss. Not experiencing any of these signs does not necessarily mean you have cancer. However, to stay safe, read about these signs in this article and if you experience any of them, talk to your doctor.
12 Signs and Symptoms of Cancer (Urdu)
Cancer does not provide any specific signs to most people that specifically indicate the disease. Some cancers are more commonly found in certain age groups. During this time, if any signs appear or persist, it is advisable to see a doctor for further diagnosis. Some common signs associated with cancer are as follows:
Changes in the skin:
Any new mark on the skin or changes in its size, structure, or color can be a sign of skin cancer. Another sign is if the mark looks completely different from other marks on the body. If you notice any unusual marks, it is important to get them checked by a doctor.
Persistent coughing:
If you do not use tobacco, the chances are low that persistent coughing is a sign of cancer. It is often a result of a common cold, acidity in the stomach, or an infection. However, if the cough does not go away within a few days or if it is accompanied by the presence of blood, especially if you use tobacco, it is important to consult a doctor immediately.
Changes in the chest:
Breast cancer is quite common in women, but most changes in the chest are not necessarily a sign of cancer. Nevertheless, it is important to seek advice from a doctor and get a check-up if there are any lumps, redness, pain, or other changes that cause concern.
Abdominal bloating:
If you experience abdominal bloating or complain of gas, it can also be a result of food or indigestion. However, if there is no improvement or if you experience fatigue, weight loss, or lower back pain, it is advisable to get it checked, especially for women, as it can be a sign of cancer.
Urination issues:
As men age, many of them face difficulties during urination, such as frequent bathroom trips, dribbling, or other issues. Generally, this is due to bladder problems, but it can also be a sign of bladder cancer, which can be determined by a doctor after tests.
Swelling of lymph nodes:
Lymph nodes are small bean-shaped glands found in the neck, armpits, and various parts of the body. When they swell, it is often due to common infections like cold or throat discomfort. However, different types of cancers, such as leukemia and lymphatic tissue cancer, can also cause this swelling. It is important to consult a doctor regarding this matter.
Passing blood while using the toilet:
If you notice blood during bowel movements in the restroom, it is advisable to consult a doctor, as it can be a sign of another condition but could also indicate colorectal cancer. Blood in urine can be a result of a urinary tract infection or kidney or bladder cancer. Therefore, it is important to seek medical advice regarding these symptoms.
Difficulty swallowing:
Having difficulty swallowing can occur due to a common cold, acidity in the stomach, or medication side effects. However, if the condition does not improve with time or medication, it is recommended to consult a doctor. Difficulty swallowing can be a sign of esophageal cancer or cancer in the region between the mouth and the stomach.
Mouth sores or pain:
Mouth sores are not a cause for concern if they heal properly, and tooth pain is not usually a worrisome symptom. However, if the sores do not heal or if there are persistent or recurring pain, white or red patches on the gums or tongue, or swelling or numbness near the jaws, these can be signs of oral cancer. Individuals who use tobacco or smoke cigarettes are at a higher risk for this type of cancer. In such cases, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.
Reduction in Body Weight:
Indeed, everyone desires a reduction in body weight, for which they prioritize diet and exercise. However, when such weight loss occurs without any effort or apparent reason, especially if there is a sudden loss of 10 pounds, it is not a common occurrence. In such cases, there are possibilities that it could be an early sign of cancer in the lymph nodes, stomach, or lungs.
Frequent Fever or Infections:
If you are otherwise healthy but frequently experience fever, it could be an initial sign of blood cancer. In the early stages of this cancer, there is a significant increase in the number of white blood cells in the body, which impairs the body’s ability to fight against infections.
Burning Sensation or Indigestion in the Chest:
Almost everyone experiences a burning sensation or indigestion in the chest, which is usually a result of food or acidity. However, if these issues persist despite lifestyle changes, it is advisable to consult a doctor because it could be a sign of stomach cancer.
