From Cold to Cancer: Recognizing Symptoms That Shouldn’t Be Overlooked
by Dr. Nishith Modi, Consultant – Surgical Oncology, HCG Cancer Centre, Vadodara
Most of us usually just write off common symptoms like sniffles, coughs, and general malaise that come with changing seasons as another case of the common cold or flu. But if symptoms persist or worsen, the possibility of a much worse diagnosis including cancer cannot be ruled out. Spotting these symptoms early may prove to be the difference. What you should look for is in this.
1. Chronic Cough
A cough that lasts more than three weeks, especially when blood, wheezing, or a raspy voice appears with it, requires attention immediately. The American Cancer Society asserts that an unexplained and persistent cough is one of the most common symptoms in the early stages of lung cancer. Throat and esophageal cancers often manifest this way as they don’t respond to antibiotics and other treatments like cough drops or cough medicines.
2. Unintended Weight Loss
Although a few pounds of unintended weight loss might seem harmless at first, it can be a sign of something. According to a study published in the British Journal of General Practice, sudden, unexplained weight loss is often associated with stomach, pancreatic, esophageal, and lung cancers. This is because cancer accelerates calorie expenditure and upsets the body’s metabolic processes, even in the absence of changes in appetite.
3. Recurrent Infections or Fevers
When you get sick all the time and feel like you’re catching recurring fevers or infections, that is a sign your immune system may be damaged. Blood cancers, for example leukemia or lymphoma, damage the body’s ability to make working white blood cells, so the individual will be more likely to experience infections. It’s recommended that recurrent illnesses especially when caused by unknown etiology, shall warrant further investigation.
4. Persistent Fatigue
We all feel tired sometimes, but cancer-related fatigue is different: it’s profound, persistent, and doesn’t improve with rest. According to the National Cancer Institute, cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and even colorectal cancer can cause this extreme fatigue. It often stems from changes in metabolism and the immune system’s response to the disease. Chronic fatigue that disrupts daily life should never be overlooked.
5. Difficulty Swallowing or Persistent Sore Throat
A lingering sore throat or trouble swallowing, especially if it feels like food is sticking, might be something more than a passing annoyance. These symptoms are usually caused by throat, esophageal, or even thyroid cancers. Early diagnosis is very important because these cancers may often be treated more easily if detected early.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If any of these symptoms lasts more than three weeks or shows signs of worsening, it is the time to consult a healthcare professional. Routine tests like imaging scans, biopsies, or bloodwork help rule out or confirm serious conditions, including cancer.
Proactive Measures to Prevent Cancer
Though not every cancer is preventable, taking proactive steps in lifestyle can help mitigate risks:
•Quit Smoking: Tobacco is one of the top causes of cancers which includes lung, throat and mouth cancer.
•Maintain a Healthy Weight: Overweight is linked with various cancers of the pancreas, esophagus and more.
•Limit Alcohol Intake: Drinking excessively increases the danger for liver and throat cancer
•Active lifestyle: Exercise regularly: As a result of regular hormone, this reduces the danger of several cancers.
•Routine Tests: Screening for diseases like mammograms, colonoscopies, and Pap smears can diagnose cancer when it is in the earliest phase; hence, chances for successful treatment are better.
The Bottom Line
A lot of colds can pass without causing panic. But there are certain warning signs, and you need to stay vigilant about these; early detection of symptoms ensures taking control of your health by lowering the chances of worsening outcome.
