Cancer Health Article

Symptoms

Cancer is a progressive disease, and goes through several stages with varying symptoms. Some symptoms are produced early and may occur due to a tumor that is growing within an organ or a gland. As the tumor grows, it may press on the nearby nerves, organs, and blood vessels.

This causes pain and some pressure that may be the earliest warning signs of cancer. Despite the fact that there are several hundred different types of cancers, producing very different symptoms, the ACS has established the following seven symptoms as possible warning signals of cancer:

• changes in the size, color, or shape of a wart or a mole
• a sore that does not heal
• persistent cough, hoarseness, or sore throat
• a lump or thickening in the breast or elsewhere
• unusual bleeding or discharge
• chronic indigestion or difficulty in swallowing
• any change in bowel or bladder habits

Many other diseases besides cancer, could produce the same symptoms. However, it is important to have these symptoms checked as soon as possible, especially if they linger. The earlier a cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better the chance of it being cured. Many cancers, such as breast cancer, may not have any early symptoms. Therefore, it is important to undergo routine screening tests, such as breast self-exams and mammograms.