Subtle Signs of Cancer You Should Never Ignore

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, following heart disease. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes, but some symptoms of cancer are subtle and often overlooked. Here are some commonly ignored warning signs of cancer for both men and women:

1. Bone Pain: Persistent bone pain, whether it's a shooting sensation or a dull ache, could indicate bone cancer. Swelling or fractures may accompany this symptom, according to the American Cancer Society.

2. Rashes and Skin Changes: Rashes can result from infections or allergic reactions, but they may also signal leukemia.

3. Eye Pain: Unexplained pain in or around the eyes might be a sign of eye cancer. Other symptoms include shadows, flashes of light, blurred vision, or vision loss.

4. Frequent Headaches: Occasional headaches are normal, but new or unusual patterns of headaches, particularly if they increase in severity, could indicate a brain tumor. This is a warning sign highlighted by the Mayo Clinic.

5. Heartburn: Persistent heartburn or chest discomfort after eating may be a sign of esophageal or stomach cancer, as noted by the American Cancer Society.

6. Painful Periods: For women, unusually heavy or painful periods or bleeding between periods can be a warning sign of endometrial cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic.

7. Nipple Changes:A nipple that becomes flattened, inverted, or turns sideways is one of the most common early signs of breast cancer, as reported by many women before their diagnosis.

8. Sore Breasts: Breasts that appear red, purplish, swollen, or feel hot and irritated could indicate inflammatory breast cancer, warns the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

9. Testicular Swelling: Men should be alert to changes in the testicles, such as swelling, which may be an early sign of testicular cancer. This can occur with or without pain, according to Medical News Today.

10. Difficulty Swallowing: Trouble swallowing is often associated with throat cancer but could also signal lung or thyroid cancer. Everyday Health notes that a hoarse voice or pressure in the throat might also be early indicators.

11. Unexplained Weight Loss: If you lose weight without changes to your diet or exercise routine, it could indicate colon or stomach cancer, according to Healthline.

12. Upset Stomach: Occasional stomach discomfort is normal, but severe cramping or abdominal pain could signal colorectal cancer, reports the American Cancer Society.

13. Wheezing: Difficulty breathing or wheezing may be an early sign of lung cancer or thyroid cancer, according to Healthline.

14. Excess Gas or Bloating: Frequent bloating or excessive gas could be linked to digestive issues, but it might also be an indicator of ovarian or colon cancer, warns the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

15. Fatigue: Fatigue is different from normal tiredness, as it represents extreme weakness or exhaustion. It can be caused by various cancers, including leukemia, which disrupts normal blood cell production.

16. Fever: Frequent or prolonged fevers may point to leukemia. According to the Cleveland Clinic, abnormal white blood cells from leukemia impair the body’s ability to fight infections, leading to recurring high temperatures.