5 Symptoms of Cancer You May Overlook

There are a ton of symptoms that you are probably already aware of to look for cancer: a lump, discharge, uneven mole, etc. But here are five symptoms you might not think are serious enough to see a doctor about.

1: HOARSENESS

If you develop hoarseness that doesn't go away after two weeks, or if you haven't had a cold or sore throat, you probably need to discuss this with your doctor. Long term hoarseness can be a sign of laryngeal or hypolaryngeal cancer. Other signs are a long term sore throat and persistent coughing.

2: TROUBLE SWALLOWING

Having trouble swallowing could be a sign of esophageal cancer. Over time the growing cancer causes the esophagus to slowly close up, making it more and more difficult to swallow. The patient will sometimes not be fully aware of the problem, simply adjusting their diet slowly as the need arises; such as, going from meat and potatoes to eating mashed potatoes or soups.

3: DROOPY EYELIDS OR PUPIL CHANGES

Cancers of the upper lungs are sometimes called Pancoast tumors. They can affect certain nerves to the eye or face, especially on one side or the other. These tumors create a condition called Horner's Syndrome. Signs and symptoms of this disorder can include:

    * The appearance of weakness or drooping of one eyelid

    * The appearance of a smaller pupil or darkness in the center of the eye

    * Reduced, or no sweating to one side of the face

4: BLOOD IN THE STOOL OR URINE

Blood in your stool can sometimes be caused from hemorrhoids. But it can also be a sign of colon cancer. While blood in your urine is a potential sign of kidney or bladder cancer.

The color of your urine could also indicate cancer. Brown urine could be a sign of pancreatic cancer. While difficulty urinating could be a sign of prostate cancer in men.

5: ABDOMINAL BLOATING

For women, pain combined with abdominal bloating could be a sign of ovarian cancer.

We know our bodies best. It's always in our best interest if we think something is wrong to talk to a doctor.

Health Alliance Network makes that an easy choice. We offer telemedicine for you and your entire family for one low monthly fee of $34.99 with no deductible and no copay. Talk to a diagnostician over the phone, on your cell phone, tablet or computer, at YOUR convenience. We're available 24 hours a day, every single day of the year.

For more information you can visit our website HERE.  Or feel free to email me directly with any questions you may have at: cynthiahenry@consultant.com