Cancer symptoms are quite varied and depend on where the cancer is
located, where it has spread, and how big the tumor is. Some cancers can
be felt or seen through the skin - a lump
on the breast or testicle can be an indicator of cancer in those
locations. Skin cancer (melanoma) is often noted by a change in a wart
or mole on the skin. Some oral cancers present white
patches inside the mouth or white spots on the tongue.
Other cancers have symptoms that are less physically apparent. Some
brain tumors tend to present symptoms early in the disease as they
affect important cognitive functions. Pancreas
cancers are usually too small to cause symptoms until they cause pain by
pushing against nearby nerves or interfere with liver function to cause
a yellowing of the skin and eyes called
jaundice. Symptoms also can be created as a tumor grows and pushes
against organs and blood vessels. For example, colon cancers lead to
symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea,
and changes in stool size. Bladder or prostate cancers cause changes in
bladder function such as more frequent or infrequent urination.
As cancer cells use the body's energy and interfere with normal hormone
function, it is possible to present symptoms such as fever, fatigue,
excessive sweating, anemia, and unexplained
weight loss. However, these symptoms are common in several other
maladies as well. For example, coughing and hoarseness can point to lung
or throat cancer as well as several other
conditions.
When cancer spreads, or metastasizes, additional symptoms can present
themselves in the newly affected area. Swollen or enlarged lymph nodes
are common and likely to be present
early. If cancer spreads to the brain, patients may experience vertigo,
headaches, or seizures. Spreading to the lungs may cause coughing and
shortness of breath. In addition, the liver
may become enlarged and cause jaundice and bones can become painful,
brittle, and break easily. Symptoms of metastasis ultimately depend on
the location to which the cancer has
spread.
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