Today one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Fifty years ago it was one in fifty women. In our lifetimes it is estimated that one in two women will be diagnosed with cancer. This is the price of exposure to environmental toxins interacting with our genes and altering the normal functions of cells. Here is a great article that outlines the top ten cancer symptoms that are warning signs for cancers in women.
Don’t ignore changes in your body and how you feel. Follow up with your doctor. It is always better to rule out a serious problem. It is always better to be diagnosed early. Responding to your body’s signals may save your life.
Top 10 Cancer Symptoms Women Need to Know
1. Pelvic Pain
Pelvic pain is characterized by pain or pressure below the navel. It is persistent and isn’t limited to just premenstrual syndrome. Pelvic pain is associated with endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, fallopian tube cancer and vaginal 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
Lower back pain occurs in the lower back and often feels like a dull ache. Some women describe it as feeling like labor pains. Lower back pain is a symptom of ovarian cancer.
4. Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
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 fever that does not go away or lasts for more than 7 days on and off should be reported to your doctor. A stubborn fever is often a symptom of cancer. Keep in mind that a fever is also a symptoms of many other benign conditions.
6. Persistent Stomach Upset or Bowel Changes
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
Losing 10 or more pounds without trying 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. Vulva or Vaginal Abnormalities
With vulvar or vaginal 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 commonly experienced cancer symptom. It is usually more common when the cancer has advanced, but still occurs in the early stages. Any type of fatigue that prevents you from doing normal daily activities need to be evaluated by a doctor.
By Lisa Fayed, About.com Guide: Cancer Symptoms in Women
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