20 Commonly Overlooked Cancer Symptoms in Both Men and Women

Cancer, the second leading cause of death in the United States after heart disease, demands early detection for better outcomes. According to Medical News Today, recognizing cancer symptoms early can significantly enhance treatment effectiveness. However, some cancer signs are subtle and easily missed. Here are 20 frequently ignored cancer symptoms that everyone should be aware of:

1. Excess Gas or Bloating

Excessive gas or bloating can be caused by various digestive issues but might also indicate ovarian or colon cancer, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

2. Persistent Fatigue

Extreme tiredness or weakness not explained by lack of sleep could be a symptom of various cancers, such as leukemia.

3. Persistent Headaches

Frequent, severe headaches or sudden changes in headache patterns may be indicative of a brain tumor, as stated by the Mayo Clinic.

4. Difficulty Swallowing

Trouble swallowing can be related to throat cancer or, in some cases, lung cancer. Everyday Health also notes that a hoarse voice or throat pressure could indicate thyroid cancer.

5. Testicular Swelling

Men experiencing testicular swelling should seek medical advice. Medical News Today notes that swollen or enlarged testicles can be a sign of testicular cancer, with or without associated pain.

6. Painful or Heavy Periods

Women experiencing unusually heavy or painful periods, or bleeding between periods, should consult a doctor, as these can be signs of endometrial cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic.

7. Skin Rash

While rashes can be due to infections or allergies, they can also signal leukemia—a type of blood cancer. Medical News Today explains that leukemia disrupts platelet production, leading to tiny red, purple, or brown spots on the skin called petechiae.

8. Sore or Swollen Breasts

Breast redness, swelling, or a hot, irritated sensation might signal inflammatory breast cancer, according to the National Institutes of Health.

9. Nipple Changes

Flattened, inverted, or sideways nipples can be an early indicator of breast cancer, as many women notice these changes before a diagnosis.

10. Unexplained Weight Loss

Unintended weight loss without changes in diet or exercise might point to colon or other stomach cancers, as highlighted by Healthline.

11. Chronic Heartburn

Regular heartburn or persistent chest pain after eating could be early signs of esophageal or stomach cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.

12. Eye Pain and Visual Changes

Pain around the eyes, along with symptoms like blurred vision, flashes of light, or vision loss, can be signs of eye cancer, according to the NHS.

13. Difficulty Urinating

Difficulty urinating or an inability to fully empty the bladder can be an early sign of prostate cancer, as noted by the Cancer Treatment Centers of America.

14. Nail Changes

A brown or black streak under a fingernail might signal subungual melanoma, a type of skin cancer that develops beneath the nails.

15. Bowel Changes

Changes in bowel habits, such as persistent constipation, diarrhea, or stool variations lasting more than a few days, should be discussed with a doctor to rule out colorectal cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.

16. Wheezing

Wheezing or shortness of breath can be early indicators of lung cancer. Difficulty breathing might also be associated with thyroid cancer, as reported by Healthline.

17. Bone Pain

Whether it's a sharp or dull ache, persistent bone pain could indicate bone cancer. Look out for additional symptoms such as swelling or frequent fractures, as reported by the American Cancer Society.

18. Fever

High fevers occurring frequently could indicate leukemia, as this cancer affects bone marrow and impairs the body’s ability to fight infections, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

19. Erection Problems

Men experiencing difficulties achieving or maintaining an erection may be facing advanced prostate cancer, according to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America.

20. Severe Stomach Upset

While occasional stomach discomfort is common, severe cramping or abdominal pain could be a sign of colorectal cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not sponsored. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical advice and diagnosis.