1. Unexplained Weight Loss
If you notice a sudden drop in your weight without changes to your diet or activity levels, it’s worth investigating. Unintentional weight loss of over 5 kilograms within a few months could indicate a metabolic or systemic issue, including cancer. Cancers of the pancreas, stomach, lungs, or esophagus often cause weight loss due to changes in how the body uses energy or processes nutrients.
2. Persistent Fatigue or Weakness
Feeling drained after a long day is normal, but constant exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest is not. Cancer-related fatigue is different from typical tiredness, it worsens over time. This may occur due to the cancer cells using up your body’s nutrients or because the disease affects blood cell production. Blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma often present with this persistent sense of weakness and low energy.
3. Unusual Lumps or Swelling
Any new lump or swelling that persists for more than a few weeks should be checked by a doctor. Lumps may form in the breast, neck, armpits, or groin, often due to abnormal tissue growth or swollen lymph nodes. Not all lumps are cancerous, but some, especially those that are hard, painless, and irregular in shape, need immediate attention. Early screening can help differentiate between benign and malignant growths.
4. Changes in Skin or Moles
Skin changes are often overlooked but can be among the earliest signs of certain cancers. Watch for moles that change in color, size, or texture, as well as new growths that appear suddenly. Other symptoms such as yellowing of the skin, dark patches, or persistent itching can also signal internal issues. Melanoma and skin cancer are more treatable when identified at an early stage, so regular skin checks are essential.
5. Persistent Cough or Hoarseness
A cough that lasts longer than a few weeks, especially if accompanied by blood or chest pain, should not be ignored. Chronic coughs can be linked to lung or throat cancers, particularly in smokers or individuals exposed to pollutants. Similarly, a hoarse voice that does not improve with time or standard treatment could point toward issues in the vocal cords or thyroid. Persistent respiratory symptoms deserve medical evaluation.
6. Unexplained Pain That Doesn’t Go Away
Pain that lingers for weeks without an identifiable cause can sometimes indicate cancer. For instance, headaches may signal brain tumors, while back pain can be linked to bone or ovarian cancers. Unlike injury-related pain, cancer-related discomfort often worsens over time or appears without clear reason. Keeping track of where and when the pain occurs can help doctors identify potential patterns and underlying causes.
7. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits
Alterations in digestive or urinary patterns can be early signs of cancer.
- Blood in the stool may suggest colon or rectal cancer.
- Dark urine or frequent urination could indicate bladder or prostate problems.
- Persistent constipation or diarrhea lasting more than a few weeks might point to gastrointestinal concerns.
8. Abnormal Bleeding or Discharge
Unusual bleeding or discharge, especially from areas such as the mouth, rectum, or genital region, may require prompt attention. Blood in sputum, vomit, urine, or vaginal discharge can signal cancers of the lungs, stomach, bladder, or cervix. Women experiencing irregular bleeding between menstrual cycles or after menopause should consult a doctor.
9. Difficulty Swallowing or Persistent Indigestion
Trouble swallowing, a feeling of food getting stuck, or chronic heartburn may be signs of cancers of the throat, esophagus, or stomach. Many people ignore these issues, attributing them to acid reflux or stress, but when persistent, they require endoscopic evaluation. Difficulty swallowing solid foods first, progressing to liquids later, can be an especially concerning pattern that warrants further testing.
10. Non-Healing Sores or Frequent Infections
A sore that doesn’t heal within a few weeks, particularly in the mouth or on the skin, may indicate a deeper problem. Oral cancers, for instance, often begin as ulcers that fail to recover. Similarly, recurring infections or wounds that heal slowly can suggest a weakened immune response caused by cancer. Chronic sores in smokers or those with poor dental hygiene should be examined early.
When to See a Cancer Specialist
If any of these symptoms persist, it’s important to consult a specialist without delay. Delhi is one of India’s most advanced medical hubs for cancer care, with hospitals offering modern diagnostics and targeted therapies. Patients benefit from multidisciplinary teams, advanced imaging, and access to clinical trials that improve outcomes. Whether for second opinions or comprehensive treatment, consulting a cancer doctor Delhi can help ensure timely care.
