7. Persistent Cough or Changes in the Voice
A cough is usually associated with respiratory infections, allergies, asthma, or irritation.
However, a cough that continues for several weeks or becomes progressively worse deserves attention.
Lung cancer can sometimes produce persistent respiratory symptoms.
These may include:
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A cough that does not go away.
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Changes in an existing chronic cough.
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Coughing up blood.
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Shortness of breath.
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Chest discomfort.
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Repeated respiratory infections.
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Unexplained fatigue.
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Unintentional weight loss.
Some lung tumors can also affect nearby nerves, producing a persistent hoarse voice.
A voice that remains unusually hoarse may result from several conditions, including vocal strain, acid reflux, infection, or problems affecting the vocal cords.
However, persistent hoarseness should not be ignored, particularly when accompanied by difficulty swallowing, a neck lump, or unexplained weight loss.
Coughing up blood requires prompt medical assessment, even when the amount appears small.
People who smoke or have a significant history of tobacco exposure should discuss their individual lung cancer risk with a healthcare professional.
Eligible high-risk individuals may benefit from screening with low-dose computed tomography.
8. Difficulty Swallowing or Persistent Digestive Discomfort
Difficulty swallowing is known medically as dysphagia.
Some people initially experience the sensation that food is sticking in their throat or chest.
At first, this may happen only when eating solid foods.
Over time, swallowing may become increasingly difficult.
Possible symptoms include:
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Food feeling stuck.
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Pain when swallowing.
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Repeated choking episodes.
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Persistent reflux.
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Unexplained weight loss.
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Difficulty swallowing liquids in more advanced cases.
Certain cancers involving the esophagus, throat, or stomach can produce these symptoms.
However, many non-cancerous conditions can also cause swallowing difficulties.
Examples include acid reflux, esophageal narrowing, neurological disorders, and inflammatory conditions.
Persistent indigestion or heartburn alone is not a reliable sign of stomach cancer.
Nevertheless, symptoms that become progressively worse or occur alongside unexplained weight loss, vomiting, anemia, or difficulty swallowing deserve medical investigation.
New or progressive swallowing difficulty should be evaluated rather than repeatedly treated with over-the-counter digestive remedies.
Sudden inability to swallow saliva, choking, or difficulty breathing requires emergency care.
9. Unusual Bleeding or Discharge
Unexpected bleeding is another symptom that can sometimes be associated with cancer.
The location and pattern of bleeding are important.
Possible warning signs include:
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Blood in the urine.
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Blood in the stool.
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Vaginal bleeding after menopause.
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Bleeding between menstrual periods.
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Unusual vaginal discharge.
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Coughing up blood.
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Repeated nosebleeds without an obvious cause.
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Unexplained bruising.
For example, blood in the urine can occur with bladder or kidney cancer.
However, urinary infections, kidney stones, and other conditions can also cause it.
Blood in the stool may be associated with colorectal cancer, although hemorrhoids and inflammatory bowel disease are other possible explanations.
Postmenopausal bleeding is particularly important.
Any vaginal bleeding after menopause should be evaluated because it can be an early sign of endometrial cancer.
It does not necessarily mean cancer is present, but appropriate testing is essential.
Unexplained bleeding should never be ignored, even if it occurs only once.
A healthcare professional can determine whether urine testing, blood tests, imaging, endoscopy, or other investigations are necessary.
10. Changes in the Breast or Nipple
Breast cancer can affect both women and men, although it is much more common in women.
A new breast lump is one recognized symptom, but breast cancer does not always present as a noticeable lump.
Other possible warning signs include:
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Changes in breast size or shape.
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Skin dimpling.
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Persistent redness or thickening.
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Nipple inversion that develops recently.
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Unusual nipple discharge.
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Persistent localized breast discomfort.
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Changes in the appearance of the nipple or surrounding skin.
Some breast cancers can cause the skin to look thickened or resemble the texture of an orange peel.
This appearance is sometimes associated with inflammatory breast cancer, a relatively uncommon but aggressive form of the disease.
A breast lump may also be benign.
Common non-cancerous causes include cysts, fibroadenomas, hormonal changes, and infections.
However, a new or changing breast abnormality should be examined.
Mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy may be recommended depending on the findings.
Do not wait for a breast lump to become painful before seeking medical advice.
Regular breast awareness and recommended screening can help identify concerning changes.
11. Persistent Fever or Night Sweats Without an Obvious Cause
Fever is a common response to infection.
It can also occur with inflammatory conditions and certain cancers.