6 Potential Early Warning Signs of Cancer and When to Contact Your Doctor

​When it comes to cancer, early detection can be a game-changer, and knowing what symptoms warrant a conversation with your doctor is vital. Being diagnosed can feel like stepping into an unknown world filled with medical terms, but it's also the moment you can take control.

​What are the Early Warning Signs of Cancer? ​

The early warning signs of cancer can vary depending on where the cancer is located. However, there are some things you should watch out for if you’re concerned you may be sick.

1. Unusual Lumps or Swelling: A new lump shouldn’t be overlooked, especially if it’s persistently growing in size. Unusual swelling or redness could also be concerning.
2. Changes in Skin Moles or Warts: Changes in a mole or warts appearance, such as alterations in color, size, texture, or bleeding, can suggest that you may have cancer. 
3. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain: Losing weight when you're not trying to or gaining weight if you haven’t changed your habits could signify something serious.
4. Persistent Pain: Pain that doesn't go away despite treatment can be an early warning sign of certain cancers. Where the pain is could be the location of the cancer. 
5. Change in Bowel Habits: If you experience long-lasting changes in bowel habits like diarrhea, constipation, or even changes in stool caliber, this could be a red flag.
6. Fatigue That Doesn’t Improve with Rest: Feeling constantly tired even after ample rest isn't normal and warrants attention from healthcare professionals. 

It’s worth noting that these signs don’t necessarily mean that you have cancer. There are many other conditions with similar symptoms. However, noticing one or several of these signs should prompt you to contact your doctor right away for further assessment and advice.

​When Should You Contact Your Doctor?

If you’re noticing any changes in your body that are causing you distress, then you should speak to a doctor. Early detection of cancer gives you the best chance to fight the disease. Not only that, but some cancers are more aggressive than others and require immediate treatment.

The sooner you know, the sooner you can get help. Whether you’re interested in pursuing cutting-edge cancer treatments in New Jersey or in California, it’s important to act quickly.

Even if you aren’t diagnosed with cancer after you’ve run all the tests (and gotten a second option), this process isn’t a waste of time. It’s possible that you could have another alignment that requires treatment. Speaking to a doctor about your symptoms is always a good idea.

What Should You Do if You’re Diagnosed With Cancer?

Receiving a cancer diagnosis is undoubtedly scary, but arming yourself with knowledge can be your strongest ally. Here are 7 steps to take that can help you navigate this complex journey.

Step 1: Learn About the Diagnosis
Upon receiving a cancer diagnosis, request details about the type, stage, and location of the cancer from your doctor. Discuss how the disease is likely to progress over time. Being well-informed enables you to make crucial decisions regarding your healthcare journey.

Step 2: Ask About Follow Up Tests
Post-diagnosis, inquire about necessary follow-up tests. These could range from imaging scans to blood work that helps determine the cancer's extent and monitors treatment efficacy. Keeping track of scheduled follow-ups will help you stay on top of managing your condition.

Step 3: Explore Treatment Options
Treatments vary and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapies. Each has its own benefits and side effects to consider. Weigh the options in terms of effectiveness and impact on quality of life to make an informed decision that aligns with your health goals.

Step 4: Form a Care Team
Your care team should include medical experts like oncologists, surgeons, and specialists in your cancer type, as well as support staff. Also, consider including a nutritionist, counselor, or patient advocate to address the broader aspects of your well-being during this challenging time.

Step 5: Practice Self-Love
After a cancer diagnosis, prioritizing self-care is essential. Treat yourself with kindness and allow for rest when needed. Embrace activities that bring you joy. Remember that nurturing your mental health is just as important as addressing the physical aspects of treatment. 

Step 6: Join a Community Program
Community programs connect you with others facing similar challenges. They can provide educational resources, coping strategies, and emotional support through shared experiences. Leaning on community strength can be empowering as you navigate your cancer journey.

Step 7: Understand Palliative Care
Palliative care is specialized medical care aimed at providing relief from the symptoms and the stress of cancer. Knowing your options for comfort-focused treatment can greatly improve your quality of life, even as you undergo more aggressive therapies to combat the disease itself.

In Conclusion

Remember, a journey through cancer is never walked alone. You have the strength to face this challenge, and with each step comes a community eager to uplift you and professionals dedicated to your care. We encourage you to reach out to build your network of support. Take that courageous first step today and start charting your path toward healing and hope.