You eat pretty well some days and work out most days, but if you are like a lot of men, whose schedule does not include a trip to the doctor once in a while. It would be nice for you to add this to your schedule because failure to do this could be bad; it simply means you brush off ways to detect early signs of cancer.
One of the best ways to fight the disease is to catch it in the early stages, when it is more treatable. The problem is that the warning signs for many kinds of cancer can seem pretty mild. Take a look at these signs and symptoms. Some are linked more strongly to cancer than others, but all are worth knowing about, most importantly, talking over with your doctor.
Problems when you urinate: Many men have some problems such as; a need to urinate more often, especially at night, dribbling, leaking, or an urgent need to go to the toilet often, trouble when they start to urinate, or a weak stream when they urine, as they get older.
An enlarged prostate gland usually causes these symptoms, so can prostate cancer. See your doctor to check on the cause of the problem. He will examine you to look for an enlarged prostate, and he may talk to you about a blood test for prostate cancer.
Changes in testicles: If you notice a lump, heaviness, or any other change in your testicle, never delay having it looked at. Unlike prostate cancer, which grows slowly, testicular cancer can take off overnight. Your doctor will look for any problems with a physical examination, blood tests, and an ultrasound of your scrotum.
Blood in your urine or stool: These can be among the first signs of cancer of the bladder, kidneys, or colon. It is a good idea to see your doctor for any bleeding that is not normal, even if you don’t have other symptoms. Although, you are more likely to have a problem that is not cancer, like haemorrhoids or a urinary infection. It is however, important to find and treat the cause of this.
Skin changes: When you notice a change in the size, shape, or colour of a mole or other spot on your skin, see your doctor as soon as you can. Spots that are new or look different are top signs of skin cancer. You will need an examination and perhaps a biopsy, which means doctors remove a small piece of tissue for testing.
Changes in lymph nodes: Swollen lymph nodes, small bean-shaped glands found in your neck, armpits, and other places, often signal that something is going on in your body. Usually, they mean your immune system is fighting a sore throat or cold, but certain cancers also can make them change. It is wise to have your doctor check any swelling that does not get better in two to four weeks.
Trouble swallowing: Some people have trouble swallowing from time to time. But if this problem does not go away and you are also losing weight or vomiting, your doctor may want to check you for throat or stomach cancer. He will start with a throat exam and barium X-ray. During a barium test, you drink a special liquid that makes your throat stand out on the X-ray.
Heartburn: You can take care of most cases of heartburn with changes in your diet, drinking habits, and stress levels. If that doesn’t help, ask your doctor to look into your symptoms. Heartburn that does not go away or gets worse could mean stomach or throat cancer.
Mouth changes: If you smoke or chew tobacco, you have a higher risk of mouth cancer. Keep an eye out for white or red patches inside your mouth or on your lips. Talk to your doctor or dentist about tests and treatments.
Weight loss without trying: If you haven’t changed your diet or exercise habits, it could mean that stress or a thyroid problem is taking a toll. But losing 10 pounds or more without trying is not normal. Although most unintended weight loss is not cancer, it could be one of the signs of cancer of the pancreas, stomach, or lungs. Your doctor can find out more with blood tests and tools that make detailed pictures of the inside of your body.
Fever: A fever is usually not a bad thing; it means your body is fighting an infection. But one that won’t go away and doesn’t have an explanation could signal leukemia or another blood cancer. Your doctor should take your medical history and give you a physical examination to check on the cause.
Breast Changes: “Men tend to ignore breast lumps because breast cancer isn’t on their radar. But one per cent of all breast cancers occurs in men, although they’re usually diagnosed much later. Do not take any chances. If you find a lump, tell your doctor and have it checked.
Fatigue: Many types of cancer cause a bone-deep tiredness that never gets better, no matter how much rest you get. It is different from the exhaustion you feel after a hectic week or a lot of activity. If fatigue is affecting your daily life, talk to your doctor. He/ she can help you find the cause and let you know if there are ways to treat it.
Cough: In nonsmokers, a nagging cough is almost never cancer. Most go away after three to four weeks. If yours does not, and you are short of breath or cough up blood, don’t delay visit to your doctor, especially if you smoke.
A cough is the most common sign of lung cancer. Your doctor can test mucus from your lungs to see if you have an infection. He may also give you a chest X-ray to check for another problem.
Pain: Cancer does not cause most aches and pains, but if you are hurting for more than a month, don’t just grin and bear it. Ongoing pain can be a signal of many types of cancer, especially those that have spread.
Stomach pain and depression: It is rare, but depression along with stomach pain can be a sign of cancer of the pancreas. However, you may not have to worry about this except cancer runs in your family, then you need to see your doctor.
Note that these are not meant to scare our men, but to keep them on their toes for a healthy year.
Additional report from Menshealth.
