Warning signs of cancer in women

In as much as women are encouraged to have self breast exams every month after their periods, many are still oblivious to the fact that there are other different types of cancers that they should also look out for every other month and every other time.

Many people miss simple signs that can lead to an early detection of different types of cancers and help them get treated early.

According to cancer.net, these pointers can guide one in knowing what body changes require going for a medical check for cancer

Breast discoloration and dimpling

Women are aware that bumps and lumps in the breasts could be a sign of breast cancer but breast dimpling is a less known symptom which must be taken seriously.

Symptoms that point towards the possibility of one having breast cancer include swelling, nipple inversion, breast tenderness and skin discoloration. It is not definite that these symptoms mean one has cancer but it is advisable for one to see the doctor once they see these signs. 

Chronic coughing

Everyone gets a cold and cough from time to time, but what happens when one gets a cough that lasts more than two weeks and could have traces of blood in the sputum? When you get a cough that lasts more than two weeks without any sign of you having a cold this MAY be a sign of leukemia or lung cancer.

Bloating

It is normal for one to have a bloated stomach during their periods and after having a heavy meal. But when one bloats on a daily with no known cause, this is a reason for them to be concerned. The consistent bloating and constipation could be a sign of uterine or ovarian cancer.

Difficulty in swallowing food

A simple sore throat can cause one to have difficulty in swallowing food and drinks but if the problem is persistent this may be a sign of stomach, throat or lung cancer.

Doctors’ advice that if the problem persists for more than two weeks then it is time to go for consultation as this may be a more serious problem.

Blood in stool

Seeing blood in your stool is always taken to be due to constipation or hemorrhoids but this is not always the case. Even though these are the most common causes, having blood in your stool is not normal and it is a sign that should lead one to seek a doctor's opinion as it may point towards one having colon cancer. Colon cancer is said to be among the most common cancers in people aged under 50 years old.

Excessive bruising

When you start noticing that you constantly have bruises in new places all over your body and you can't figure out how you got them, especially on your hands and fingers, this could be a sign of something much more serious. The bruising can be a sign of either leukemia or anemia and you need to see a doctor for tests and treatment.

Abnormal pelvic or period pains 

Having abnormal periods is not uncommon among women since periods are affected by many factors such as stress, pregnancy and for some people, the weather and climate changes. Having heavier periods for a couple of months, severe pelvic pain and irregular periods can be a sign that one has ovarian, cervical and other types of cancers that are gynecological. 

Frequent fevers or infections

If you find yourself constantly taking painkillers to relieve pain and reduce fevers, you may need to see a doctor for more tests. This does not only damage your liver but you are not helping yourself by treating what you do not know.  The frequent infections and fevers could be a sign of early lymphoma or leukemia which tend to make the immune system weak and makes you more exposed to infections and diseases.