Cancer is often easier to treat when detected early. While many symptoms can have causes other than cancer, persistent or unexplained changes in the body should not be ignored.
At KOTESWARA HEALTHCARE, we believe that awareness, timely evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and personalized treatment are key to better cancer care.
1. Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing significant weight without changes in diet or exercise can sometimes be an early warning sign of cancer, particularly cancers involving the digestive system, pancreas, lungs, or other organs.
If weight loss is persistent or unexplained, medical evaluation is advisable.
2. A New Lump or Swelling
A new lump in the breast, neck, abdomen, groin, or any other part of the body should be evaluated, especially if it is growing, persistent, or associated with other symptoms.
Not every lump is cancerous, but examination and appropriate imaging or biopsy may be required to determine its cause.
3. Persistent Pain
Pain that is unexplained, progressively worsening, or persistent despite routine treatment deserves attention.
Depending on its location, persistent pain may require evaluation of the gastrointestinal, breast, pelvic, chest, or other organs.
4. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits
Persistent changes such as:
- Blood in the stool
- Persistent constipation or diarrhoea
- Change in stool calibre
- Difficulty passing urine
- Blood in the urine
- Frequent or unusual urinary symptoms
should be medically assessed, particularly when they continue or recur.
5. Unusual Bleeding
Bleeding without an obvious explanation should never be ignored.
Examples include blood in the stool or urine, coughing up blood, abnormal vaginal bleeding, bleeding after menopause, or unusually heavy menstrual bleeding.
The cause may be benign, but appropriate evaluation is important.
6. Persistent Cough or Voice Changes
A cough that persists for several weeks, recurrent blood-stained sputum, unexplained breathlessness, or persistent hoarseness may require further assessment.
These symptoms can arise from many conditions, but persistent symptoms should not be dismissed.
7. Difficulty Swallowing or Persistent Indigestion
Difficulty swallowing, persistent acidity or indigestion, unexplained abdominal discomfort, recurrent vomiting, or early fullness may sometimes indicate a problem involving the gastrointestinal tract.
Persistent symptoms may require investigations such as endoscopy or imaging.
8. Changes in a Mole or Skin Lesion
A mole or skin lesion that changes in size, shape, colour, or appearance, or one that repeatedly bleeds or does not heal, should be evaluated by a qualified medical professional.
9. Persistent Fever, Fatigue or Night Sweats
Unexplained fatigue, recurrent fever, or significant night sweats can have numerous causes. However, when these symptoms are persistent or associated with weight loss, lumps, bleeding, or other changes, further evaluation may be appropriate.
Early Detection Can Make a Difference
Having one of these symptoms does not mean that you have cancer. Many of these symptoms are caused by non-cancerous conditions.
The important point is not to ignore symptoms that are persistent, unexplained, progressive, or unusual for you.
Depending on your symptoms and risk factors, evaluation may include a clinical examination, blood tests, ultrasound, CT or MRI, endoscopy, mammography, or biopsy.
When Should You See a Surgical Oncologist?
A surgical oncologist may be involved when cancer is suspected or diagnosed and surgery is being considered as part of treatment.
Treatment decisions are best made after confirming the diagnosis and stage of disease. Depending on the cancer, treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of treatments.
At KOTESWARA HEALTHCARE, our approach focuses on appropriate evaluation, accurate diagnosis, multidisciplinary cancer care, and individualized treatment planning.
Don’t Ignore Persistent Symptoms
Early evaluation does not necessarily mean cancer—but delaying evaluation of persistent symptoms can sometimes delay diagnosis.
If you notice a persistent or unexplained change in your health, seek medical advice rather than self-diagnosing.
KOTESWARA HEALTHCARE
Advanced, Affordable, Accessible Comprehensive Care
Oncology • Surgical Oncology • Gastro & GI Cancer Surgery • Breast & Gynae Care • Laparoscopic Surgery • Lab & Diagnostics
📍 Nizampet, Hyderabad
📞 +91 88865 54422 | +91 88865 54499