Cancer is a disease that no one wants to think about. Even so, everyone still needs to be vigilant about its symptoms, because cancer is most curable if diagnosed and treated in its earliest stages. Some men are notorious foot-draggers, especially when it comes to scheduling doctor’s visits. However, men could benefit greatly from being alert to certain cancer symptoms that indicate the need to consult with a doctor sooner rather than later. Although symptoms that are connected with cancer may very well be caused by other health issues, it is extremely important to see a doctor for accurate diagnoses when those warning signs are noticed.
Listed below are 8 cancer symptoms that are often neglected by men:
Breast Mass
Breast cancer is most commonly thought of as a cancer that affects women, but it can strike men too. Any new lump in breast tissue needs to be checked by a physician. Some other worrisome signs involving breast cancer include skin dimpling or puckering, nipple retraction, redness or scaling of the nipple or breast skin, and nipple discharge.
Persistent Pain
Pain can be a general symptom, often associated with aging, but it may be an indicator of cancer. Any pain that persists should be checked out by the doctor. Even though it may not be cancer, a doctor can work with you to find out what’s causing the pain and help you to get relieved from it.
Changes in the Testicles
Testicular cancer occurs most often in men aged 20 to 40. Any change in the size of the testicles, such as growth or shrinkage, could be a reason for concern. In addition, men should be aware of any swelling or lump in the testicles; a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum should also be reported and examined.
Swelling of the Lymph Nodes
If a lump or swelling in the lymph nodes under the armpit or in the neck, or anywhere else, has been found, it could be a sign of cancer. Ask a doctor to do an examination and figure out any associated issues that could explain the lymph node enlargement, such as infection. If there is no infection, the doctor will typically order a biopsy.
Fever
Unexplained fever may imply cancer. Often, fever occurs after the cancer has spread from its original site and invaded another part of the body. But it can also be caused by blood cancers such as lymphoma or leukemia.
Unexpected Weight Loss
Most men don’t lose weight easily. If a man loses more than 10% of his body weight in a short time period of weeks, it’s the time to see a doctor.
Abdominal Pain and Depression
Any guy who’s got a pain in the abdomen and is feeling depressed needs a checkup. Research has found that depression may link to pancreatic cancer. Other cancer-related symptoms can include jaundice or a change in the stool color, often a gray color.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a symptom that can be explained by many causes, so may easily get ignored. If a man often feel extremely tired and doesn’t get better with rest, check with the doctor. Fatigue can be a warning sign of leukemia or cancers of the stomach or colon.
Please don’t ignore any of the above mentioned symptoms. Go check with the doctor, and get regular exams to identify the actual causes of the symptoms and consult with your doctor to find a solution. If you are diagnosed with cancer, do not panic; educate yourself and work with your oncologist to choose the best available treatment for you.
