• What to do: If you lose more than 10 pounds without trying or if your weight loss is not linked to changes in your lifestyle, see a healthcare provider. Unexplained weight loss may be a sign of metabolic changes caused by cancer.

2. Fatigue That Doesn’t Go Away

While fatigue is common and can be caused by stress or lack of sleep, chronic, unexplained fatigue is a symptom that should not be ignored. Cancer cells consume a lot of energy, and this can lead to persistent tiredness.

• What to do: If you feel unusually tired, even after a full night’s rest, and the fatigue doesn’t improve, get checked out by a doctor. Especially if this symptom is accompanied by weight loss, pain, or other signs.

3. Persistent Pain

Pain that doesn’t go away or unexplained aches can sometimes signal the presence of cancer. Bone pain, for instance, is often associated with cancers that have spread to the bones, while abdominal pain may indicate issues with the digestive system.

• What to do: If pain persists for weeks and cannot be explained by an injury or condition, seek medical attention. Any unexplained pain should be investigated, especially if it worsens over time.

4. Changes in the Skin

Skin changes like new moles, growths, or changes in the color, shape, or size of existing moles may indicate skin cancer. Dark spots or skin lesions that don’t heal or grow over time could be signs of melanoma or other forms of skin cancer.

• What to do: Check your skin regularly for any new spots or changes. A mole or growth that’s asymmetrical, has uneven borders, or changes in color could be a cause for concern. Have a dermatologist examine it if needed.

5. Coughing or Hoarseness That Won’t Go Away

A persistent cough or hoarseness in your voice, especially if it lasts for more than three weeks, could indicate cancer in the lungs, throat, or vocal cords. If you have a history of smoking, your risk is even higher.

• What to do: If your cough or hoarseness lasts beyond a few weeks or is accompanied by blood or chest pain, schedule a visit to the doctor. It may be a sign of lung cancer or a throat-related issue.

6. Difficulty Swallowing

Trouble swallowing (dysphagia) can be a sign of throat, esophagus, or stomach cancer. If you find it difficult to swallow food or liquids or experience pain while swallowing, it could indicate a serious issue.

• What to do: Difficulty swallowing is a red flag and should be addressed immediately. This symptom could point to a narrowing or blockage in the esophagus due to a tumor.

7. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits

Frequent or painful urination, blood in the urine, or changes in bowel movements (such as diarrhea or constipation) can be a sign of cancers related to the bladder, colon, or rectum.

• What to do: If you experience any changes in your bowel or bladder habits that persist for more than a couple of weeks, consult a healthcare provider. Be especially aware if you notice blood in your stool or urine.

8. Unexplained Bleeding or Bruising

Bleeding that is unusual for your body, such as unexplained nosebleeds, blood in your stool, or heavy menstrual bleeding, can sometimes be a warning sign of cancer, especially blood cancers like leukemia.

• What to do: Any unexplained or excessive bleeding should be taken seriously. If bleeding doesn’t stop on its own or if you experience unusual bruising, visit your doctor for a thorough evaluation.

9. Lumps or Swelling

The presence of a lump or swelling, particularly in the breast, testicles, or lymph nodes, can be an early sign of cancer. In many cases, lumps in these areas can be benign, but it’s important to have them checked.

• What to do: If you notice any new lumps or swellings, especially those that are painful or grow over time, consult a healthcare professional. Don’t wait for the symptoms to worsen.

10. Indigestion or Difficulty Eating

Persistent indigestion or difficulty eating, especially when it’s accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or bloating, could be an early warning sign of stomach or esophageal cancer.

• What to do: If your symptoms are more than just occasional discomfort and persist for several weeks, seek medical advice. It could indicate a digestive issue that requires treatment.

11. Sudden Changes in Your Breathing

Shortness of breath, wheezing, or labored breathing, especially without physical exertion, could signal lung cancer or a cancer that has spread to the lungs.

• What to do: If you experience unusual difficulty breathing, seek medical care immediately. This could be a sign of lung cancer or other respiratory issues that need attention.

12. Chronic Acid Reflux or Heartburn

Chronic acid reflux or heartburn that does not improve with over-the-counter medications could signal an issue with your esophagus, including esophageal cancer.

• What to do: If heartburn persists, especially if it’s severe or frequent, make an appointment with your doctor. Long-term reflux can lead to complications like esophageal cancer.

13. Changes in Appetite

A sudden and unexplained loss of appetite can be a symptom of cancer, particularly cancers affecting the digestive system. On the other hand, an increase in appetite, especially with unexplained weight gain, may also be related to certain cancers.

• What to do: A significant change in appetite that lasts more than a few days, particularly when accompanied by weight loss or fatigue, warrants a visit to your healthcare provider.

14. Fever Without an Obvious Cause

Fever that persists or comes and goes for no apparent reason, especially if it's accompanied by night sweats, can sometimes be a sign of blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma.

• What to do: If you experience unexplained fever, particularly if it persists for several weeks or comes with other symptoms like night sweats or fatigue, schedule an appointment with your doctor.

15. Persistent Headaches or Vision Changes

Severe or persistent headaches that don’t respond to typical treatment, or sudden changes in vision, could indicate brain cancer or cancer affecting the optic nerves.

• What to do: If you experience frequent headaches, blurred vision, or changes in cognitive function that don’t go away, see a healthcare professional immediately.

Conclusion: Stay Vigilant and Seek Early Detection

While cancer symptoms are not always obvious, recognizing these 15 early warning signs can make a significant difference in the outcome of a diagnosis. If you notice any of the above symptoms, don’t wait until they worsen. Be proactive about your health and consult a healthcare provider to rule out or address any potential concerns.

Remember, early detection is key to successful treatment. Many forms of cancer are more treatable when caught in the early stages, so don’t ignore your body’s warning signs. Prioritize your health and always trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, get it checked out.