Cancer can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- change in bowel or bladder habits
- sores that don¡¦t heal
- unusual bleeding or discharge
- thickening or lump in the breast or any other part of the body
- indigestion or difficulty swallowing
- obvious change in a wart or mole
- nagging cough or hoarseness
When these or other symptoms occur, they are not definite signs of cancer. Symptoms may be caused by infections, benign tumors or other problems. It is important to see a doctor if you have any of these symptoms or if you are concerned about other changes in your body or the way you feel. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis. Don¡¦t wait to feel pain: Early cancer usually does not cause pain.
If symptoms occur, the doctor may order various tests and/or a biopsy. A biopsy is the most reliable way to know whether a medical problem is cancer. During a biopsy, the doctor removes a sample of tissue from the abnormal area. The tissue is then examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells.
Learn about the symptoms of Breast Cancer
