10 Cancer Sypmtoms That You Need To Know

Ladies, listen to your bodies!!! Women especially need to be aware of any signs and symptoms their bodies may be exhibiting. Many types of gynecologic cancer produce symptoms early enough for them to be successfully treated. When the symptoms are ignored, the delay in treatment can prove to be fatal. If you are experiencing something abnormal for you, see your doctor. Chances are the symptoms aren't cancer related, but it's better to be safe.

1. Pelvic Pain - Or in other words, pain or pressure below your navel.  If it is persistent and not related to PMS please mention it to your doctor.  It can be a symptom of many types of gynecologic cancer.
2. Abdominal Swelling and Bloating - Abdominal swelling and bloating is one of the more common symptoms of ovarian cancer. It is also a symptom that is most ignored. The bloating may be so bad that one can't button their pants, or even have to go up a size.
3. Persistent Lower Back Pain - This can be (although certainly not always) a sign of ovarian cancer.  This pain is a dull ache that occurs in the lower back.  Some women describe the pain as labor pains, or back labor.
4. Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding - is the most common symptom experienced by women when they have a gynecologic cancer. Heavy periods, bleeding between periods, and bleeding during and after sex are all considered abnormal vaginal bleeding and are symptoms of gynecologic cancer. The symptom of abnormal vaginal bleeding is linked to: cervical cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer.
5. Persistent Fever - A stubborn fever is often a symptom of cancer. Keep in mind that a fever is also a symptoms of many other benign conditions.A fever that does not go away or lasts for more than 7 days on and off should be reported to your doctor.
6. Bowel Changes or Persistent Stomach Upset - If you experience constipation, diarrhea, blood in the stools, gas, thinner stools, or just a general overall change in bowel habits, see your doctor. These changes are all symptoms of gynecologic cancer and colon cancer.
7. Unintentional Weight Loss - Sounds like a nice surprise, right?  If you loose more than 10 pounds without trying it may be a nice surprise, but isn't quite normal. Although a woman's weight may fluctuate throughout the month, any thing 10 pounds or more should be reported to your doctor.
8. Genital Abnormalities - you should be aware of any sores, blister, changes in skin color, and discharge. Women should exam their vulva and vagina regularly to look for these abnormalities.
9. Changes in the Breast - During the monthly breast self exam, women should look for lumps. soreness, nipple discharge, dimpling, redness, or swelling. Report any changes to your doctor as soon as possible.
10. Fatigue - Fatigue is one of the most common cancer symptoms, but it is also one of the most general.  It is difficult to determine what may be normal fatigue and what is worth mentioning to your doctor.  Here's a guide: If fatigue is preventing you from completing your normal daily activities, then it needs to be evaluated by a doctor.

Sources: www.cancer.about.com