The very word ‘cancer’ sends chills down your spine. Surprisingly, despite so much information at our disposal, we have very little knowledge about this fatal disease. Sometimes, people prefer to ignore the symptoms, fearing the probability of falling prey to such a deadly disease. Like they say, ignorance is bliss. But, it’s always good to know the signs to avoid the pain and all the hassles that come with it.
Did you know that routine changes in your body could also be a sign of cancer? It’s natural for us women to tend to the needs of every person in the family. But when it comes to our own body, we say, ‘it can wait.’ Isn’t it? But remember, it’s you and only you who is responsible for your health. And if you find any of these changes taking place in your body, it’s time to pay heed to the alarm bell and visit your doctor right away.
Dear ladies, watch out for these symptoms that may seem very normal to you, but could spell devastating health complications.
1. Changes In Breasts
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You spend a fortune on that attractive bra so your breasts can stay in shape. Now, how about a little more care? Getting a mammogram might sound scary, but a physical examination will not harm you. If you notice any of the following changes in your breasts, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your gynecologist.
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Unusual redness of your nipple(s)
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Your breast skin scaling off
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Discharge of liquid (any color) from your nipple(s)
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Inverted nipples
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Puckered or dimpled skin
2. Bloating
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Yes, this is a typical premenstrual syndrome. But if it continues for long, and is accompanied by weight loss or bleeding, it’s not a good sign. A pelvic exam, an ultrasound or a simple blood test can determine if you have ovarian cancer.
3. Vomiting
When you have a throat infection, you do have trouble swallowing food. But if the condition persists and is accompanied by vomiting and sudden weight loss, get a barium X-ray done to rule out throat cancer.
4. Fever
This is perhaps one of the most common symptoms for most of the diseases. But you could also experience other symptoms like sweating all night, joint pain, weight loss, and swollen glands. This could be a clear indication of leukemia or blood cancer.
5. Sudden Weight Loss
Women do everything under the sun so they can lose some flab here and there. But if you see your body shrinking without any effort, there’s something wrong with it. We all know that stress and thyroid issues too result in loss of weight. However, sudden weight loss in a short period without exercise could be a sign of pancreatic cancer. Get a CT scan and blood test to ensure you are healthy.
6. Heartburn
No, we are not talking of the general acidity that occurs after you eat at a restaurant. This is serious. If heartburn is a recurring thing and stays for long, it means bad news.
7. Bleeding In Between Your Menstrual Cycle
If you are bleeding after your menopause, then it’s a cause for concern. Besides, if you have regular spotting of blood between your periods, it could be a case of endometrial cancer.
8. Change In The Color Of Your Skin
If you find a change in the size of your mole or the color of your skin, it would help to get checked for skin cancer.
9. Cough
If you are a habitual smoker, it’s a given that you will eventually end up having lung cancer. But that doesn’t mean others are spared of the trouble. If you have a persistent cough or spit blood, it’s time to get a battery of tests done.
10. Bloody Stool
Watch out for blood in your pee or stool. It could be an indicator of cancer of the kidney or bladder.
11. Patchy Mouth
How many times have you ignored the warning signs on cigarette packs? You think one puff wouldn’t harm, right? But if you see white or red patches inside your mouth or on your lips, get yourself checked for oral cancer.
12. Swollen Lymph Nodes
