Joe Yates
Experts have outlined the five cancer symptoms that often slip under the radar and are dismissed as everyday problems - but in reality, they could mean something far more serious.
Sometimes a cancer diagnosis can arrive completely out of the blue, with no signs whatsoever, but more often than not, the body gives subtle warnings before things get worse.
Now, experts at John Hopkins University are urging people not to dismiss certain symptoms, no matter how small they might seem, because they could be linked to something much more serious.
Doctors say the best thing you can do for yourself is pay attention to changes in your body - if something suddenly appears or gradually worsens, it’s always safer to check in with your doctor.
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One of the first things to look out for is shortness of breath - getting out of breath after the gym or a run is normal, but if you’re suddenly puffing and struggling to breathe while climbing stairs or carrying out everyday tasks, that’s unusual and should be checked.
Unexplained bleeding is another sign that shouldn’t be brushed off. While not all bleeding is linked to cancer, certain types are more concerning, like coughing up blood, seeing blood in your stool, noticing abnormal vaginal bleeding, passing blood in urine, or even spotting bloody discharge from the nipple.
These symptoms can be caused by other conditions, but doctors say they always warrant further investigation.
Then there are lumps and masses. Many lumps are harmless - like swollen lymph nodes during a cold - but if you notice one that doesn’t go away or feels unusual, it’s important to get it examined.
Difficulty swallowing is another red flag, especially if food feels like it’s getting stuck in your throat - this is known as dysphagia and while it doesn’t always point to cancer, it becomes concerning if it gets worse over time.
Similarly, feeling unusually full after eating very little can also be a sign that something isn’t right and should be checked by a professional.
Finally, doctors emphasise the importance of paying attention to changes in your body’s normal functions. Occasional constipation or diarrhoea isn’t unusual, but sudden and persistent changes, especially when paired with difficulty passing urine or stool, passing air in urine, or feeling like you’re not completely emptying your bowels, can all be reasons to seek medical advice.
Experts stress that these symptoms don’t always mean cancer, but ignoring them can be risky.
Early diagnosis makes a huge difference when it comes to treatment, so taking these signs seriously could be life-saving.
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact the American Cancer Society on 1-800-227-2345 or via their live chat feature, available 24/7 every day of the year.