There is no doubt that women’s bodies do change. But at times, changes that seem normal can be signs of cancer. It is, therefore, important for women to pay attention to their body so they can notice when something’s different. Cancer is killing. It has claimed so many lives, especially women. It is good to note that Cancer can easily be managed if one noticed it on time.
Below are some of the signs and symptoms women should not ignore:
Breast changes: Ensure you allow your doctor to always check lumps in your chest, though most breast lumps are not cancer. You could also notice skin dimpling or puckering; nipples that turn inward; redness or scaling of your nipple or breast skin and nipple discharge.
Bloating: Suffice it to say that women are natural bloaters. Continuous bloating could be a sign of cancer. This could include ovarian, pancreatic, breast, colon, gastrointestinal, or uterine.
Between-Period Bleeding: Any bleeding that is not a part of your usual menstruation can have many causes; it can be a sign of endometrial cancer (cancer of the lining of your uterus).
Skin Changes: Changes in the shape, size, colour of a mole or other spot, including the development of new spots, are common signs of skin cancer.
Blood in Your Pee or Stool: Bloody stool is often from haemorrhoids, but it can also be a symptom of colon cancer.
Changes in Lymph Nodes: Some cancers, such as lymphoma and leukaemia can cause lymph nodes to swell and/or become tender. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands found around the body.
Trouble Swallowing: Continuous trouble swallowing, especially with vomiting or weight loss, could be a sign of throat or stomach cancer.
Weight Loss Without Trying: Losing 10 pounds or more without a change in your diet or exercise habits could be a sign of cancer.
Heartburn: Heartburn that doesn’t go away or that gets worse could mean cancer of the stomach, throat, or ovaries. Also, persistent heartburn can damage the lining of your oesophagus and lead to a condition called Barrett’s oesophagus.
Fever: A fever that doesn’t go away and can’t be explained could mean leukaemia or another blood cancer.
Cough: Any coughs that last longer than that three to four weeks, especially if you smoke or are short of breath, and if you cough up blood is the most common symptom of lung cancer.
Belly Pain and Depression: This is rare, when they happen, this could be a sign of pancreatic cancer.
