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The female body goes through loads of changes, from hormonal changes to menopause, so females feel differently at different times. Nonetheless, while mood fluctuations might be a norm for some, it is still a good idea to keep your eyes open for symptoms associated with cancer.
Amongst the common cancers found in women, you have breast cancers, colon cancers, lung cancers, cervical cancers, skin cancers, etc. Before we plunge into the list of all potential symptoms that might lead to cancer, it is essential to note that despite the presence of symptoms, without tests, you should never believe you have cancer until you verify it from a doctor or health specialist.
Sometimes, cancer symptoms are also caused by other underlying health conditions. However, it is essential to contact your doctor as soon as you can if you notice any cancer warning signs. Read on to learn more about the potential symptoms of cancer in females:
9 symptoms of cancer in females
Changes in Breast
Disclaimer alert: a lump in the breast doesn’t indicate that someone has breast cancer; however, if you notice a new lump in the breast and it has been present for longer than a few weeks, it is high time to have it checked.
Some of the essential symptoms to look out for include a swollen breast, nipple discharge, nipple or breast area pain, itchy breast skin, and inward-pointing nipples. It is recommended to check your breasts at least once a month, but we say you should assess the breast area at least once a week.
Changes in Pee
UTI (urinary tract infections) is among the top reasons that bladder habits can change; however, if the situation prevails, it might point out something more serious. You need to make an appointment with your doctor instantly when you detect blood in your urine. Sometimes, blood in urine can also be a sign of kidney cancer.
Some other symptoms of cancer include a burning sensation while peeing, pressure on your bladder, a sudden and frequent urge to pee, and even pains while emptying the bladder.
No More Hungry?
If you have cancer in your digestive tract or near the digestive tract, there is a great chance that it might press on your stomach, causing you to feel less hungry. The feeling of fullness might last, that you may skip meals for days. If you feel that you have suddenly lost weight and don’t feel hungry anymore, it is time to see a doctor.
Changes in Bowel Movement
Another significant indicator that points out to cancer is bowel changes. Bowel changes usually impact the areas where your rectum and colon are. Bowel changes are of different kinds, such as IBD (inflammatory bowel disease and hemorrhoids. Females might also confuse colon cancer symptoms with PMS or even their periods.
If you detect that your bowel habits are changing, you might want to see the doctor, especially when the color of your poop changes into dark, bloody poop. You may also experience diarrhea or constipation that seemingly never goes away.
Usually, such symptoms are linked with belly pain and period-like cramps. Such changes in bowel movements might also lead to weight loss and overall tiredness, and physical weakness.
If you feel like your discharge is smelly and even bloody despite not being on periods, it might be a sign of cervical cancer. By showing a good doctor, such as the Hong Kong cervical cancer center, you can determine whether you are dealing with some infection or whether the underlying issue is a serious one.
If you are currently on menopause but still bleeding or spotting, you ought to know that it is not normal and that you should see a doctor right away.
Back Pain/ Pelvic Pain
If you experience long-lasting belly pain or pelvic pain, you ought to take it seriously. Any long-lasting pain in your torso can be a serious indicator of cancer which is why you should check in with your doctor, as you might be suffering from ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, and even colorectal cancer.
You may also suffer from lower back pain, which can also be an indicator of a spine tumor. Typically, unexplained weight loss can also be a major sign of cancer in the pancreas. Besides, pain in your upper belly that spreads everywhere around is a strong indicator of pancreatic cancer.
Bloated Belly
Usually, women feel bloated when they are about to get their periods or after they have consumed a big meal. However, if you have been bloated continuously for a few weeks, it is a grand sign of either ovarian cancer or any other cancer.
Changes in Skin
Another common cancer that is dominant in females is skin cancer, and often it starts with a mole that eventually gets bigger. However, skin cancer can also appear in the shape of sores or red spots. If you see skin changes that stay for a longer time than usual, you ought to see a dermatologist or a doctor straight away.
Pay attention to any physical changes. While assessing your skin and body, don’t forget to check essential areas, such as toes, scalp, finger, and toenails.
Experiencing Heartburn
Sometimes cancer can affect the throat, mouth, stomach, and even your esophagus. Besides heartburn, you may also experience trouble swallowing even when you drink. The heartburn might make you feel as if you have some sort of indigestion or that something is stuck in your throat. If you experience any of these symptoms, you might want to check in with your doctor and get some tests done.
Other symptoms you may want to look out for include a never-going-away pain or swollen parts of your body, such as the swollen face, arms, feet, and even swollen chest.
A Persistent Cough
Sometimes, a persistent cough can be a warning sign that something is seriously wrong with your lungs. You may be suffering from lung cancer if your voice is constantly hoarse. Often, hoarseness can be an indicator of thyroid cancer. Nonetheless, if you cough up blood which is followed by chest pain, don’t delay seeing a doctor.
See Also: Skin Cancer Screening