Common Cancer Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Help

Identifying cancer early greatly increases the likelihood of effective treatment and better long-term outcomes. At Hope and Heal Cancer Hospital in Siliguri, we are committed to educating the community about the symptoms and early signs of cancer—because early diagnosis saves lives.

What Are the First Signs of Cancer?

Cancer symptoms can vary depending on the type, stage, and location of the disease. However, certain warning signs are common across many cancers. These signs don't always mean cancer—but if they persist, it's time to see a doctor.

General Early Symptoms of Cancer:

• Unexplained Weight Loss - Losing over 5 kg without trying can be an early sign, especially of cancers like stomach, lung, or pancreatic cancer.
• Persistent Fatigue - Feeling drained even after rest may indicate blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma.
• Painless Lumps or Swelling - New lumps in the breast, testicles, neck, or armpits should never be ignored.
• Skin Changes - Watch out for new moles, changes in mole color or size, persistent itching, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and sores that don't heal.
• Chronic Pain - Long-term pain in bones, back, or head may be linked to underlying cancers.
• Frequent or Unexplained Fever - Especially if it's low-grade and persistent without infection.
• Night Sweats - Not just hormonal- it can signal lymphoma or leukemia.
• Unusual Bleeding or Discharge - Blood in the urine, stool, or from the vagina (especially after menopause or intercourse) needs urgent medical attention.

16 Warning Signs of Cancer You Shouldn't Ignore

1. Unexplained Weight Loss

Losing 5 kg or more without changes in diet or exercise could be an early sign of cancer. Tumors can increase metabolism or interfere with how your body absorbs nutrients. Often linked with cancers of the stomach, pancreas, lung, or esophagus.

2. Fatigue That Doesn't Improve with Rest

Persistent tiredness that doesn't improve with sleep could signal cancers like leukemia or colon cancer. It may be caused by internal bleeding, nutrient depletion, or the immune system being constantly activated.

3. Persistent Pain

Pain that doesn't go away, especially in specific areas, may indicate a tumor pressing on organs or nerves. For instance, headaches could point to a brain tumor, while back or bone pain could signal metastasis.

4. Chronic Bloating

Constant bloating, especially in women, may be a warning sign of ovarian cancer. It may be caused by fluid buildup (ascites) or tumors affecting digestive organs.

5. Lumps Under the Skin or in Soft Tissues

Any new, hard, or enlarging lump—particularly in the breast, neck, armpit, or groin—should be examined. It could be a swollen lymph node or a tumor in its early stages.

6. Changes in Bowel Habits

Diarrhea, constipation, narrow stools, or a change in frequency that lasts more than a few weeks could indicate colorectal or gastrointestinal cancer.

7. Blood in Stool or Urine

Visible blood in your stool might point to colon cancer, while blood in urine may signal bladder or kidney cancer. Sometimes, these symptoms may be due to infections, but they must be checked.

8. Difficulty Swallowing

Struggling to swallow or feeling like food is stuck in your throat may be an early sign of esophageal, throat, or stomach cancer.

9. Changes in Urination Pattern

Frequent urination, painful urination, or trouble emptying the bladder completely may be signs of prostate or bladder cancer.

10. Hoarseness or a Persistent Cough

A chronic cough or changes in your voice lasting more than 3 weeks could indicate throat, lung, or thyroid cancer. Smokers and those with a family history should be more cautious.

Read our Guide on how Quitting smoking can lower your risk

11. Skin Changes

Look for new moles, changes in size or color of existing moles, or rough/scaly patches. Yellowing (jaundice) could signal liver issues, while darkening might point to adrenal cancer.

12. Unusual Discharge from Nipples or Genitals

Unusual or bloody nipple discharge unrelated to breastfeeding could indicate breast cancer. Similarly, foul-smelling or bloody vaginal discharge may be a warning sign of cervical or uterine cancer

13. Swollen Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes often swell with infections, but painless, persistent enlargement—especially in the neck, armpit, or groin—might indicate blood cancers like lymphoma or leukemia.

14. Headaches That Don't Go Away

Chronic headaches could be unresponsive due to normal treatment of brain tumours. These may also be accompanied by vision problems, nausea, or seizures.

15. Frequent Infections

Cancers like leukemia impair the body's ability to fight infections. If you're constantly falling ill or healing slowly, it's worth evaluating your immune function and blood health.

16. Mouth Ulcers That Won't Heal

Sores, lumps, or white/red patches in the mouth that persist—especially in smokers or tobacco users—may indicate oral cancer.

Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not mean you have cancer. However, if any symptom is persistent, worsening, or unusual for your body, seek medical advice promptly. Early detection saves lives—don't ignore your body's signals

When Should You See a Doctor?

Many symptoms of cancer mimic common illnesses, making it hard to know when to worry. However, the key is to pay attention to how long symptoms persist and whether they worsen over time.

You should consult a doctor or an oncologist at Hope and Heal Cancer Hospital in Siliguri if you experience:

• Any unexplained symptom that lasts more than 2 weeks
• A lump or swelling that's new or growing
• Bleeding that is unusual or persistent
• Noticeable skin changes that do not heal
• Severe fatigue or pain without an obvious reason

Early diagnosis is the foundation of effective cancer care, and timely intervention can often make the difference between a curable and a critical condition.

Why Early Detection Matters

The success of cancer treatment heavily depends on how early the disease is found. When cancer is detected in its initial stages:

• Treatment is less invasive
• Survival rates are significantly higher
• The chances of a full recovery improve
• Medical expenses tend to be lower too

At Hope and Heal Cancer Hospital, we advocate regular screenings and early check ups—especially if you have a family history of cancer, are a smoker, or are exposed to occupational carcinogens.

How Is Cancer Diagnosed After Symptoms?

If your symptoms raise suspicion of cancer, your doctor may recommend diagnostic tests such as:

• Blood tests (e.g., CBC, tumor markers)
• Imaging tests (X-rays, CT, MRI, PET scans)
• Biopsies (tissue sampling for microscopic examination)
• Endoscopy or colonoscopy (internal viewing of digestive organs)
• Pap smear or HPV tests (for cervical cancer)

Hope and Heal Cancer Hospital in Siliguri is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and a team of expert oncologists to ensure accurate and timely diagnosis.

What You Shouldn't Ignore

Sometimes, people overlook or normalize symptoms due to fear or misinformation. These signs should never be ignored:

• Persistent cough or hoarseness
• Sores that don't heal
• Chronic bloating
• Changes in urination or bowel movement
• Unusual discharge or bleeding
• Difficulty in swallowing

Even if it turns out to be a benign issue, getting checked is always the right step.

How Hope and Heal Cancer Hospital in Siliguri Can Help

At Hope and Heal Cancer Hospital, we believe early detection saves lives. That's why our focus goes beyond treatment—we provide complete care, from diagnosis to recovery and long-term support.

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Frequently Asked Questions