Tumors can be so diverse that it is not possible to compile a single checklist of symptoms that is valid for everyone. It is not unusual for certain types of tumors to remain “under the radar” or to be mistaken for other diseases. Dr. Éva Pádi, clinical oncologist at the Pain Center, palliative physician, specialist in oncological pain relief, drew attention to the fact that since there are not obvious and clear symptoms in all cases, it is also important to look into the background of rarer complaints.
It is also worth investigating the cause of such symptoms
Chronic cough, hoarseness
It is not a surprising statement that a cough can be a symptom of a lung tumor, but this suspicion can also arise in the case of unexplained hoarseness. Some patients with lung tumors have a raspy, softer, and weaker voice if the tumor presses on the nerves that control the vocal cords. However, this can also be a symptom of laryngeal cancer. Of course, in most cases there is an innocent reason for hoarseness, such as a cold, but if it lasts longer than a few weeks, you should see a doctor.
Difficulty swallowing
If you feel that the wall is regularly stuck in your throat, or you only manage to swallow with difficulty, it could even be a symptom of a tumor in the mouth, throat or esophagus. This condition is also called dysphasia and is caused by the tumor blocking or narrowing the path of the mouth.
Unreasonable weight loss
Rapid and inexplicable weight loss can be a symptom of several conditions and diseases, such as dementia, diabetes, and heart failure. At the same time, this type of weight loss can also be a sign of cancer, which always counts in comparison to the initial weight.
Night sweats
This symptom is not uncommon during menopause, but if it persists and is severe (for example, you have to change your nightgown because of this), it may even raise the suspicion of leukemia or lymphoma, so if it does not resolve itself, it is recommended to see a doctor.
Persistent heartburn
Sudden, severe heartburn is a well-known symptom of a heart attack, and if it is present often, it may indicate reflux. Heartburn, which typically occurs regularly after meals or at night, can also be caused by an esophageal or stomach tumor.
Lumps, bumps
Palpable lumps under the skin can have several causes, often a fatty tumor, for example. In rarer cases, however, it can also be caused by soft tissue sarcoma, which can develop anywhere on the body, but is most often observed in the arms, legs, chest, and abdomen. The cancerous lump is usually hard to the touch and painless, but it is constantly growing.
Bloating
In some cases, the tumor can irritate the peritoneum, causing the body to produce more fluid than it can get rid of. This accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, known as ascites, can be a symptom of several oncological diseases, surprisingly even breast cancer. That is why you should see a doctor if you experience bloating for more than two weeks.
Change in bowel habits
If someone experiences occasional diarrhea or constipation, it is not a cause for concern. But if there is a significant change in this area and one of the habits becomes permanent or the two permanently alternate, it is definitely worth investigating to see if it is causing a colon tumor.
A new type of pain that doesn’t go away
Many people attribute pain that they have not experienced before to aging, and most of the time this is true. But if unusual pain persists, the tumor may be pressing on a nerve, bone, or organ. So let’s not wave at the pain that won’t go away!
The investigation is not worth delaying
- Many people feel uncertain about a new, unusual symptom, whether it could be a problem at all, or in what direction it is worth starting in the series of tests, he explains dr. Eva Padiclinical oncologist at the Pain Center, palliative physician, specialist in alleviating oncological pain. – This is when expert guidance comes in very handy, which helps a lot in maintaining mental stability. You should not be afraid that your complaints will not be taken seriously, as the primary goal is definitely the exclusion of cancer and its early detection, which can enable effective treatment.
Source: Pain center
Source: www.patikamagazin.hu
