8th October 2024

Spotting the signs of cancer early

Signs and symptoms of cancer

There are over 200 different types of cancer that can cause many different signs and symptoms. Sometimes symptoms affect specific areas of the body, such as our tummy or skin. But signs can also be more general, and include weight loss, tiredness (fatigue) or unexplained pain. The most widely known sign of cancer is a lump on your body, but there are many more.

What signs of cancer can I look out for?

We have listed some key signs and symptoms you can be aware of. Most signs and symptoms listed here are caused by something less serious than cancer - but if it is cancer, spotting it early can make a real difference. If you notice any changes that are not normal for you, or something that won’t go away - don’t ignore it. Whether it’s on this list or not, get it checked out with us. 

General cancer symptoms

Very heavy night sweats or fever

Sweating at night or having a high temperature (fever) can be caused by infections or a side effect of certain medications. It’s also often experienced by women around the time of the menopause. But speak to your doctor if you have very heavy, drenching night sweats, or an unexplained fever.

 Fatigue

There are lots of reasons why you may feel more tired than usual, particularly if you’re going through a stressful event, or having trouble sleeping. But if you’re feeling tired all the time, or, for no clear reason, it could be a sign that something is wrong - speak to your doctor.

 Unexplained bleeding or bruising

Unexplained bleeding or bruising when you have not hurt yourself is important to get checked out by your doctor. This includes blood in your poo or pee, as well as vomiting or coughing up blood. It also includes any unexplained vaginal bleeding between periods, after sex or after the menopause.  No matter how much blood or what colour it is (blood can be red, or a darker colour like brown or black), speak to your doctor.

 Unexplained pain or ache

Pain is one way our body tells us that something is wrong. As we get older, it’s more common to experience aches and pains. But unexplained or persistent pain anywhere in the body could be a sign of something more serious.

 Unexplained weight loss

Small weight changes over time are quite normal, but if you have lost a noticeable amount of weight without trying to, tell your doctor.

 Unusual lump or swelling anywhere

Persistent lumps or swelling in any part of your body should be taken seriously. This includes any lumps in the neck, armpit, stomach, groin, chest, breast, or testicle.

For further information visit the NHS website   Cancer - Signs and symptoms - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Am I overreacting?

Never. While any of the symptoms above can be an early sign of cancer, in most cases it won’t be cancer, but if it is, spotting it early when treatment is more likely to be successful can make a real difference. So please make an appointment and get assessed by your GP, don’t ignore it.  Spotting cancer early saves lives.

 Getting in contact with us

Your doctor will want to hear about any unusual changes you’re experiencing. You won’t be wasting their time. Whether it’s a change that’s new, unusual for you, or something that won’t go away, please get it checked out.

And when invited please do attend the Bowel, Breast and Cervical Screening appointments. Find our more about cancer screening.

On Saturday 19 October we are also running a drop in cervical screening and women’s health advise session.  9-12am @ Southville Surgery