Do not assume that unexplained weight loss is automatically a positive sign of improved health. If it continues without a clear explanation, arrange a medical assessment.
3. Persistent or Unexplained Pain
Pain is a common symptom of many everyday conditions, including muscle strain, arthritis, headaches, and digestive problems. In some circumstances, however, pain that persists or changes unexpectedly may require further investigation.
Depending on the location and type of cancer, symptoms may include ongoing abdominal discomfort, persistent headaches, bone pain, or pain that does not improve as expected. Cancer can sometimes cause pain by pressing on surrounding tissues, affecting nerves, or involving bones and other structures.
Nevertheless, pain alone is not a reliable way to identify cancer. Most headaches and backaches, for example, have causes unrelated to cancer.
Consider seeking medical advice if pain continues without a clear explanation, becomes progressively worse, repeatedly returns, or interferes with sleep and daily activities. Tell your healthcare professional where the pain occurs, when it started, what makes it better or worse, and whether other symptoms have appeared.
Sudden, severe pain or pain accompanied by symptoms such as difficulty breathing, fainting, or new neurological problems may require emergency care.
The goal is not to become alarmed by every ache. It is to recognize when a symptom no longer follows the usual pattern of a minor injury or temporary illness.
4. Changes in the Skin
The skin can develop changes for many reasons, including sun exposure, aging, allergies, infections, and benign growths. Certain changes, however, should be examined because some skin cancers may initially resemble an ordinary mole, spot, or sore.
Look for a new growth, a mole that changes in size or color, an irregular border, or a spot that looks noticeably different from the others. A useful approach is to pay attention to changes over time rather than judging a spot by its appearance on one particular day.
Another warning sign is a sore that does not heal, repeatedly bleeds, or develops a persistent crust. Some skin cancers may appear as shiny bumps, scaly patches, or wounds that seem to heal and then return.
Not every changing mole is cancerous, and skin changes can be difficult to interpret without professional examination. If a spot is changing, bleeding, growing, or otherwise concerning, arrange an assessment with a healthcare professional.
It is also worth remembering that skin cancer can occur in people of every skin tone. Checking areas that receive little sunlight, including the scalp, soles of the feet, and under the nails, can be useful when monitoring for unusual changes.
5. A Persistent Cough or Hoarse Voice
A cough commonly follows a respiratory infection and may take some time to settle. Allergies, asthma, acid reflux, smoking, and other conditions can also cause a cough or changes in the voice.
However, a cough that persists for several weeks, becomes progressively worse, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms deserves medical evaluation. Lung cancer is one possible cause, but a persistent cough does not, by itself, indicate that someone has cancer.
Other symptoms worth discussing with a healthcare professional include ongoing hoarseness, unexplained breathlessness, chest discomfort, repeated chest infections, or coughing up blood.