A useful approach is to become familiar with your own skin so that you can notice changes over time.
Not every unusual-looking mole is melanoma, and skin changes can have many benign causes.
But a lesion that is changing or behaving differently from other spots on your skin should be evaluated by a qualified professional.
6. Persistent Bloating or Abdominal Swelling
Occasional bloating is extremely common.
Food choices, constipation, menstrual changes, digestive disorders, and other everyday factors can all cause abdominal discomfort or swelling.
The concern arises when bloating becomes persistent, unusual for you, or accompanied by other symptoms such as pelvic pain, early fullness when eating, unexplained weight loss, or changes in bowel habits.
Persistent abdominal or pelvic symptoms can occur with several conditions, including ovarian cancer, although they are much more commonly caused by non-cancerous problems.
Because ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect early, persistent or unexplained symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
7. Changes in Bowel Habits
A sudden or persistent change in bowel habits can have many explanations.
You might experience constipation, diarrhea, narrower stools, increased urgency, or a feeling that you have not completely emptied your bowel.
Dietary changes, medications, infections, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and other conditions can cause similar symptoms.
However, persistent bowel changes can also be associated with colorectal cancer.
Pay particular attention if bowel changes occur alongside blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, or persistent fatigue.
8. Changes in Urination
Urinary symptoms are common, particularly among women.
A urinary tract infection can cause frequent urination, urgency, burning, and discomfort. Other conditions can cause similar symptoms.