12 Early Warning Signs That Deserve Medical Attention
There isn’t a reliable list of symptoms that can tell you “cancer cells are developing.” Many cancer symptoms are also caused by infections, inflammation, medications, or other non-cancerous conditions. However, persistent or unexplained changes deserve evaluation.
12 signs to discuss with a healthcare professional include:
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Unexplained weight loss without intentionally changing your diet or exercise.
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Persistent or unusual fatigue that doesn’t improve with adequate rest.
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A new lump or swelling, particularly one that grows or persists.
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Unexplained bleeding, such as blood in the stool or urine, coughing up blood, or unusual vaginal bleeding.
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Persistent changes in bowel habits—for example, ongoing diarrhea, constipation, or a noticeable change in stool.
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Persistent changes in urination, including blood in urine or a significant change in frequency.
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A cough or hoarseness that doesn’t go away, especially if it is new.
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Persistent difficulty swallowing or ongoing indigestion that is unusual for you.
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A sore or wound that doesn’t heal, including an abnormal area in the mouth.
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Changes in a mole or other skin lesion, such as changes in size, shape, color, or persistent bleeding.
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Persistent, unexplained pain, particularly if it is new or progressively worsening.
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Recurring fever or night sweats without an obvious infection or other explanation.
When to get checked
A symptom doesn’t mean you have cancer, and waiting for symptoms isn’t a substitute for recommended cancer screening. If a new symptom is persistent, worsening, unexplained, or unusual for you, arrange a medical evaluation.
For potentially serious symptoms such as vomiting blood, coughing up significant amounts of blood, severe unexplained pain, or heavy unexplained bleeding, seek urgent medical care.
