Get your healthcare questions answered
by doctors, scientists, and clinical experts
A free service by Curio to support patients and their loved ones
Your team
How can you tell if you have cancer?
- Anna(AI First Responder)••Pending Curio clinician review
Detecting cancer early is crucial for successful treatment. While some cancers may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages, there are several signs and symptoms that may indicate the presence of cancer. It's important to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by other non-cancerous conditions. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation:
-
Unexplained weight loss: Losing a significant amount of weight without trying could be a sign of various types of cancer.
-
Fatigue: Persistent and unexplained fatigue that doesn't improve with rest can be a symptom of cancer.
-
Changes in the skin: Skin changes, such as darkening, yellowing, redness, or excessive hair growth, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
-
Changes in bowel or bladder habits: Persistent changes in bowel movements, such as diarrhea, constipation, or blood in the stool, as well as changes in urination, should be investigated.
-
Unexplained pain: Persistent pain that doesn't have an obvious cause and doesn't improve with treatment should be evaluated.
-
Persistent cough or hoarseness: A cough that doesn't go away or hoarseness that lasts for an extended period may be a sign of lung or throat cancer.
-
Changes in moles or skin lesions: Any changes in the size, shape, color, or appearance of moles or skin lesions should be examined by a healthcare professional.
It's important to note that these symptoms can be caused by various conditions other than cancer. If you are experiencing any concerning symptoms, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your specific situation and recommend appropriate tests or referrals to specialists if needed. Regular check-ups and cancer screenings are also important for early detection, especially for individuals at higher risk for certain types of cancer.
-