Cancer can affect women differently than men. Some cancers occur mostly or only in women, like cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. Being aware of the early signs and symptoms of cancer is important for getting an early diagnosis and prompt treatment. Here are some of the common symptoms of cancer in women.
Unexplained Lumps
One of the most common early signs of cancer in women is the appearance of a lump or mass. Breast cancer often presents as a painless lump in the breast or underarm area, but lumps can occur anywhere on the body. Ovarian cancer may cause abdominal bloating or a feeling of fullness due to a mass or lump in the abdomen. Lymphoma and leukemia can also cause lumps or swelling in the neck, underarm, or groin area from enlarged lymph nodes. Any new, abnormal lump that persists for more than a month should be evaluated by a doctor.
Abnormal Bleeding
Unexpected vaginal bleeding or discharge may be an early symptom of cervical, uterine, or vaginal cancer. Bleeding between periods, after menopause, or after intercourse can be red flag symptoms. Blood in the stool or urine can signify colon, bladder, or kidney cancers. Easy bruising or frequent nosebleeds can also be signs of blood cancers like leukemia. While there are many benign causes of abnormal bleeding, it’s wise to report any unusual bleeding to your physician.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Many cancers can cause unexplained weight loss in women, even without a loss of appetite. This is because cancer cells compete for nutrients from food, preventing proper absorption. Ovarian, uterine, pancreatic, stomach, and colon cancers often lead to unintentional weight loss. Losing more than 10 lbs without dieting or increased exercise warrants medical evaluation.
Fatigue and Weakness
Extreme fatigue that is not relieved by adequate sleep is a common symptom of cancer. The cancerous cells create demand for energy which can exhaust the body’s reserves. Weakness, dizziness, and shortness of breath, even with minor exertion, can be symptoms of cancer in women. Fatigue can precede a cancer diagnosis by months or years, so persistent exhaustion should not be ignored.
Skin Changes
Certain skin changes may indicate underlying cancers. Dark streaks under the fingernails can signal melanoma. Paler skin inside the mouth or vagina might mean oral or vaginal cancer. Yellowing skin and eyes or itchy skin could indicate cancers affecting the liver or pancreas. Changes in existing moles, including growth, oozing, or bleeding, require prompt dermatological evaluation to check for melanoma.
Difficulty Swallowing
Difficulty swallowing solid foods or liquids, called dysphagia, can have several possible causes. When accompanied by unexplained weight loss or hoarseness, it may indicate cancers of the throat, esophagus, or stomach. The feeling like food is stuck in the throat can also be a red flag symptom requiring examination.
Indigestion or Bloating
Frequent heartburn, indigestion, nausea, abdominal pain, or pressure may signify cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, ovaries, or pancreas. Some cancers cause a buildup of fluid in the abdomen, called ascites, which can create bloating and a distended abdomen. Persistent digestive issues with no known cause warrant further testing.
Pelvic Pain or Changes
For women, any unexplained pelvic pain or changes should be checked out. Ovarian cancer can initially cause abdominal swelling, pelvic pressure, or pain. Cervical cancer may cause pelvic pain during intercourse. Uterine cancer can lead to pelvic cramping or pain. Vulvar and vaginal cancers also often have localized pain as an early symptom. Pelvic exams and imaging tests can identify the underlying cause.
Back Pain
When back pain cannot be attributed to muscle strain, physical labor, or injury, cancer may be the culprit. Back pain can signal cancers of the colon, ovaries, or liver that have spread to the spine or pelvis. Multiple myeloma also commonly causes spinal bone pain.Sudden, severe, or progressively worsening back pain warrants medical evaluation.
Cough or Hoarse Voice
A cough that persists weeks or months or a hoarse voice that does not improve can be symptoms of lung cancer or cancers that spread to the lungs. Hoarseness can also signal thyroid or laryngeal cancer. If a cough produces blood, immediate medical attention is required. Chronic coughs and hoarseness should always be evaluated, especially in smokers.
Fever or Night Sweats
Fevers unrelated to illness or infection can indicate blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma. Drenching night sweats that require changing clothes or bedding can also signal cancer. This occurs when cancer cells release chemicals called cytokines that raise body temperature. Fevers and sweats coming and going for more than 2 weeks require examination.
Changes in Bowel Habits
Noting changes in bowel habits, like increased constipation, diarrhea, or narrower stools over several weeks warrants medical attention. It may indicate colon, rectal, or anal cancer obstructing bowel movements. Bleeding, abdominal pain, and cramps often accompany the changes. Seeing a doctor promptly for evaluation is key.
Shortness of Breath
Feeling winded after minimal activity can signify lung cancers or cancers that have spread to the lungs. Fluid around the lungs, called a pleural effusion, from lung, breast, or ovarian cancers can make breathing difficult. Shortness of breath may also indicate anemia or blood clots from some cancers. This symptom always warrants prompt medical care.
When to See a Doctor
In general, women should have regular well-woman exams, mammograms, Pap tests, and colon cancer screenings according to health guidelines. Between visits, paying attention to the body and being aware of unexplained, persistent changes is wise. Discussing any bothersome symptoms with a doctor can lead to earlier cancer diagnosis and treatment. Ignoring symptoms can allow cancers to advance before treatment. Communicating concerns and having regular screening aims to identify cancer in initial, more treatable stages. Catching cancer early dramatically improves outcomes.
Conclusion:
In summary, Cancers have identifiable symptoms even in early stages. By knowing the symptoms of cancer in women, prompt medical attention can be sought. Being proactive with screening tests and not delaying checkups when symptoms arise both enable earlier diagnosis. Awareness of changes, self-advocacy, and partnership with physicians allows the best opportunity for detecting and treating cancers in women successfully.
