Cancer prevention is better than cancer treatment. Although there are several cancer treatments options these days, it is still better to prevent the disease from occurring. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and other kinds of cancer treatments are effective when the cancer is diagnosed in its early stage. Even with the most advance medical equipment and powerful drugs, it is very difficult to treat cancer in its advance stage. This is the reason why many doctors recommend everyone especially those with a family history of cancer to watch out for the different cancer symptoms and signs. Early diagnosis is very imperative for a successful treatment of cancer. Those who are at risk for any kind of cancer should have a regular checkup. In addition, everyone should be aware of the different signs and symptoms of cancer.
General Signs and Symptoms
There are more than 200 kinds of cancer and each has different signs and symptoms. There are however some general signs and symptoms for which are associated with all types of cancer. The acronym CAUTION is usually used to help people remember the warning cancer signs and symptoms. The C stands for change in the bowel habits while the A stands for a cut or sore which does not heal. The U means unusual discharge or bleeding and the T is for thickening or lump in any part of the body especially the breast. The I stands for indigestion or difficulties in swallowing. On the other hand, O means obvious changes in a mole or a wart while the N stands for nagging cough or hoarseness. These general cancer symptoms should be remembered by every one. If you experience any of these signs and symptoms, you should go to your doctor immediately.
Lung Cancer Signs and Symptoms
Lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer death both in men and women worldwide according to cancer statistics as of 2004. Most of the common lung cancer symptoms do not appear immediately. Hence, those who have a family history of lung cancer and smokers should undergo lung cancer tests regularly. The signs and symptoms of lung cancer are shortness of breath (dyspnea), chronic coughing, pain in the abdomen or chest area and coughing up of blood (hemoptysis). Other symptoms are wheezing, weight loss, fatigue, hoarseness and loss of appetite.
Brain Cancer Signs and Symptoms
Some brain cancer types do not manifest any cancer symptoms or signs which is why it is difficult to diagnose the disease in its early stage. There are some warning signs and symptoms to watch out for. They might be caused by other brain diseases but doctors recommend individuals to watch out for them nonetheless. Brain cancer symptoms are usually caused by the presence of the tumor which can cause swelling and inflammation in the brain. The common brain cancer symptoms and signs are headache, difficulty in walking, seizures, weakness and clumsiness. Another symptom to watch out for is changes in a person’s mental status such as changes in memory, attention and concentration. Nausea and vomiting early in the morning, speech difficulties, vision abnormalities and gradual changes in the emotional and intellectual capacity of a person are other signs and symptoms to be aware of.