Oncology symptoms: diagnosis in the early stages

Oncology symptoms: diagnosis in the early stages

I. General symptoms of cancer: anxiety signals

Cancer is not a single disease, but a group of more than one hundred different diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and the spread of abnormal cells. Symptoms of cancer vary depending on the type of cancer, its location and stage of development. It is important to remember that the presence of one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily indicate cancer, but requires immediate consultation with a doctor for further diagnosis.

1. Inexplicable weight loss: Significant weight loss (5 kg or more) for no apparent reason, such as diet or physical exercises, can be a sign of cancer. This is especially alarming if weight loss occurs quickly. Cancer cells consume a large amount of energy, depriving the body of nutrients and causing the loss of muscle mass and fat.

2. Constant fatigue: A feeling of fatigue, which does not pass after rest and is not associated with physical activity or stress, may be a symptom of cancer. Cancer can affect the production of red blood cells, causing anemia and, as a result, fatigue. In addition, the immune system, which is constantly working on the fight against cancer cells, can cause a sense of exhaustion.

3. High temperature or night sweating: The fever, especially if it is inexplicable and repeated, can be a sign of cancer, especially leukemia or lymphoma. Night sweating, abundant sweating during sleep, can also indicate cancer, since the immune system reacts to cancer cells.

4. Skin changes: New moles or changes in existing moles (size, shape, color) can be a sign of skin cancer. Non -healing ulcers, bleeding or itchy skin areas also require immediate consultation with a dermatologist. It is also worth paying attention to a change in skin color, such as yellowing (jaundice) or darkening.

5. Changes in the work of the intestines or bladder: Constant constipation, diarrhea, changes in the consistency of the stool or the presence of blood in the chair can be signs of intestinal cancer. Frequent urination, painful urination, blood in the urine or changes in the flow of urine can indicate cancer of the bladder or prostate.

6. Non -healing wounds: Wounds, cuts or ulcers that do not heal for several weeks can be a sign of skin cancer or other types of cancer. Cancer cells can interfere with the healing process of wounds.

7. Seals or tumors: Any new seals or tumors under the skin, especially in the chest, armpits, neck or testicles, must be checked by the doctor. It is important to remember that not all seals are cancer, but it is necessary to exclude the possibility of cancer.

8. Permanent cough or hoarse voice: A constant cough that does not pass, or hoarse voice can be signs of lung cancer or laryngeal cancer. It is especially important to consult a doctor if the cough is accompanied by blood.

9. Difficult swallowing: Difficult swallowing (dysphagia) may be a sign of esophagus or throat cancer. This can manifest itself as a feeling of stuck -up in the throat or pain when swallowing.

10. Inexplicable pain: Constant pain, which does not pass after ordinary painkillers, may be a sign of cancer. The pain can be localized in a certain area of ​​the body or be more common.

II. Specific symptoms of localization cancer

In addition to general symptoms, there are specific symptoms that depend on the location of cancer.

1. Lung cancer:

   • Constant cough that does not pass
   • Blood in sputum
   • Pain in the chest
   • Dyspnea
   • Hoarse voice
   • Weight loss
   • Fatigue
   • Pneumonia or bronchitis that are repeated

2. Breast cancer:

   • Seal or tumor in the chest or armpit
   • Changing the size or shape of the chest
   • Drawing a nipple
   • Discharge from the nipple (except for breast milk)
   • Changes in the skin on the chest (redness, edema, peeling)
   • Chest pain (rarely)

3. Tolstoy cancer (colorectal cancer):

   • Changes in the work of the intestine (constipation, diarrhea)
   • Blood in the chair
   • Abdominal pain
   • Weight loss
   • Fatigue
   • A feeling of incomplete bowel movement

4. Prostate cancer:

   • Frequent urination, especially at night
   • Difficult urination
   • A weak stream of urine
   • Painful urination
   • Blood in urine or sperm
   • Back pain, hips or pelvis

5. Skin cancer (melanoma, basalioma, flat cell cancer):

   • New moles or changes in existing moles (size, shape, color)
   • Non -healing ulcers
   • Bleeding or itching skin
   • Changing the color of the skin

6. Cervical cancer:

   • Bleeding between menstruation
   • Bleeding after intercourse
   • Unusual vaginal discharge
   • Pain in the basin
   • Pain during intercourse

7. Ovary cancer:

   • Bloating
   • Abdominal
   • Feeling of quick saturation during food
   • Frequent urination
   • Fatigue
   • Changes in the work of the intestine

8. Stomach cancer:

   • Loss of appetite
   • Abdominal pain
   • Nausea
   • Vomit
   • Blood in vomiting or chair
   • Weight loss
   • Feeling of quick saturation during food

9. Pancreatic cancer:

   • Abdominal pain that radiates into the back
   • Weight loss
   • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and white proteins)
   • Diabetes mellitus, which suddenly arose
   • Nausea
   • Vomit

10. Brain cancer:

    • Headaches that intensify over time
    • Convulsions
    • Changes in vision, hearing or speech
    • Weakness or numbness in the limbs
    • Problems with equilibrium
    • Changes in personality or behavior
    • Nausea
    • Vomit

III. Cancer risk factors

Understanding the risk factors of cancer can help people take measures to reduce their risk and increase awareness of potential symptoms.

1. Age: The risk of developing many types of cancer increases with age.

2. Genetics: Heredity plays a role in the development of some types of cancer. People with the family history of cancer have an increased risk of developing this disease.

3. Smoking: Smoking is the main risk factor for the development of lung cancer, laryngeal cancer, cancer of the oral cavity, esophagus cancer, bladder cancer, kidney cancer, pancreatic cancer and other types of cancer.

4. Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing liver cancer, breast cancer, colon cancer, esophagus and cancer of the oral cavity.

5. Diet: Improper nutrition, rich in treated foods, red meat and poor fruits and vegetables, can increase the risk of cancer.

6. Obesity: Obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer, colon cancer, endometrial cancer, kidney cancer and esophagus cancer.

7. The effect of ultraviolet radiation: The effect of ultraviolet radiation from the sun or solarium increases the risk of skin cancer.

8. The effect of carcinogens: The impact of carcinogenic substances in the workplace or in the environment, such as asbestos, benzene and radon, can increase the risk of cancer.

9. Viral infections: Some viral infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus, are associated with an increased risk of cancer.

10. Immunodeficiency states: People with a weakened immune system, for example, after organs or HIV/AIDS transplantation, have an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer.

IV. Methods for diagnosing cancer in the early stages

Early diagnosis of cancer is crucial for successful treatment. There are many methods of cancer diagnostics that help identify the disease in the early stages.

1. Physical examination: The doctor conducts a physical examination to identify any anomalies, such as seals, tumors or changes in the skin.

2. Blood tests: Blood tests can help identify signs of cancer, such as an increased level of certain proteins or enzymes. Blood can also be tested for the presence of tumor markers, substances that are produced by cancer cells.

3. Visualizing research:

   • X-rays: X -ray uses x -rays to create images of internal organs and tissues.
   • Computed tomography (CT): CT uses x -rays to create more detailed images than an ordinary x -ray.
   • Magnetic resonance tomography (MRI): MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create images of internal organs and tissues.
   • Ultrasound examination (ultrasound): Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of internal organs and tissues.
   • Positron emission tomography (PET): PET uses a radioactive drug to identify areas of increased metabolic activity, which may indicate cancer.

4. Biopsy: The biopsy includes the capture of a tissue sample for research under a microscope. The biopsy is the only way to confirm the diagnosis of cancer. There are various types of biopsy, including:

   • Incision Biopsy: Removing a small piece of fabric.
   • Excisio biopsy: Removing the entire abnormal area of ​​the fabric.
   • Subtle -iginal aspiration biopsy: Using a thin needle to take a sample of liquid or tissue.
   • Polstoigal biopsy: Using a thick needle to take a sample of fabric.

5. Endoscopy: Endoscopy includes the introduction of a thin, flexible tube with a camera at the end into the body to visualize internal organs. Endoscopy can be used to detect cancer of the esophagus, stomach, colon and other organs.

6. Cytology: Cytology includes a study of cells under a microscope. Cytology can be used to detect cervical cancer (papanicolau smear) and other types of cancer.

7. Molecular diagnostics: Molecular diagnosis includes an analysis of DNA, RNA or proteins to detect genetic mutations or other changes that may indicate cancer.

V. Cancer screening

Cancer screening is the process of detecting cancer in the early stages of people who have no symptoms. Screening can help identify cancer in the early stages when it is easier to treat.

1. Breast cancer screening:

   • Mammography: X -ray examination of the mammary gland. It is recommended for women aged 40 years and older.
   • Military gland self -examination: Regular feeling of the chest to identify any changes.
   • Clinical examination of the mammary gland: Examination of the breast by a doctor.

2. Frequency of cervical cancer:

   • Mazok Papanikolau (PAP test): Cytological examination of cervical cells. Recommended for women aged 21 and older.
   • HPV test: A test for the human papilloma virus.

3. Colorectal cancer screening:

   • Colonoscopy: Endoscopic examination of the colon. It is recommended for people aged 45 years and older.
   • Sigmoidoscopy: Endoscopic examination of a part of the colon.
   • Hidden blood analysis: Test for detecting blood in a chair.
   • Kala DNA test: Test for detecting DNA of cancer cells in a chair.

4. Light cancer screening:

   • Low -dose computed tomography (NDC): It is recommended for people with a high risk of lung cancer (for example, smokers).

5. Prostate cancer screening:

   • Analysis for prostat-specific antigen (PSA): Blood test for measuring PSA level. The decision to conduct prostate cancer screening should be made individually after discussing with a doctor.

VI. The role of genetic testing in cancer diagnosis

Genetic testing plays an increasingly important role in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Genetic testing can help identify people with an increased risk of cancer development, determine the most effective treatment and predict the outcome of the disease.

1. Testing for a hereditary predisposition to cancer: Genetic testing can reveal genetic mutations that increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer. This can help people take measures to reduce their risk, such as more frequent screening or preventive operations. Examples of genes associated with an increased risk of cancer development include BRCA1 and BRCA2 (breast cancer and ovarian cancer), MLH1 and MSH2 (colorectal cancer) and TP53 (multiple types of cancer).

2. Testing tumor genes: Genetic testing of tumor tissue can help determine specific genetic mutations that lead to the growth of cancer cells. This information can be used to select the most effective treatment, including targeted therapy, which is aimed at specific genetic mutations.

3. Liquid biopsy: Liquid biopsy is a method of analysis of DNA of cancer cells circulating in the blood. Liquid biopsy can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and detect cancer relapse in the early stages.

VII. Cancer treatment prospects in the early stages

Early diagnosis of cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. There are many methods of treating cancer, which can be used depending on the type of cancer, its stage of development and the general state of health of the patient.

1. Surgery: Surgical removal of a tumor is the main method of treating many types of cancer, especially in the early stages.

2. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high -energy radiation to destroy cancer cells.

3. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy cancer cells throughout the body.

4. Target therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs that are aimed at specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.

5. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy uses the body’s immune system to combat cancer.

6. Hormonal therapy: Hormone therapy is used to treat cancer types, which depend on hormones, such as breast cancer and prostate cancer.

7. Bone marrow transplantation: Bone marrow transplantation can be used to treat blood cancer, such as leukemia and lymphoma.

VIII. Cancer prevention

Cancer prevention plays an important role in reducing the incidence and mortality from cancer. There are various measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of cancer.

1. Refusal of smoking: Refusal of smoking is the most important step that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing lung cancer, laryngeal cancer, cancer of the oral cavity and other types of cancer.

2. Moderate alcohol consumption: The restriction of alcohol consumption can reduce the risk of developing liver cancer, breast cancer, colon cancer and other types of cancer.

3. Healthy nutrition: Eating a large number of fruits, vegetables and whole grain products can reduce the risk of cancer. The restriction of the use of processed products, red meat and sugar can also be useful.

4. Maintaining a healthy weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of breast cancer, colon cancer, endometrial cancer and other types of cancer.

5. Physical activity: Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of breast cancer, colon cancer and other types of cancer.

6. Ultraviolet radiation protection: The use of sunscreen, wearing protective clothing and avoiding solariums can reduce the risk of skin cancer.

7. Vaccination: Vaccination against HPV and hepatitis B can reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer and liver cancer, respectively.

8. Regular medical examinations and screening: Regular medical examinations and screening can help identify cancer in the early stages when it is easier to treat.

IX. Psychological support of patients with cancer

The diagnosis of cancer can be extremely traumatic experience. Psychological support plays an important role in helping patients with cancer and their families to cope with the emotional and psychological consequences of the disease.

1. Consulting: Consulting can help patients with cancer and their families cope with fear, anxiety, depression and other emotional problems.

2. Support groups: Support groups provide patients with cancer with the opportunity to communicate with other people who experience similar situations.

3. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT): KPT can help patients with cancer change the negative thoughts and behavior that can worsen their emotional state.

4. Relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques, such as meditation and yoga, can help patients with cancer reduce stress and improve well -being.

5. Information support: Providing patients with cancer of information about their disease, treatment and side effects can help them feel more controlled and confident.

X. Cancer

Studies in cancer continue to develop, and each year new discoveries and treatment methods appear.

1. Development of new drugs: Researchers are constantly working on the development of new drugs that are more effective and have less side effects.

2. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a promising direction in the treatment of cancer, which uses the body’s immune system to combat cancer.

3. Gene therapy: Gene therapy is aimed at correcting genetic defects that lead to cancer.

4. Early diagnosis: Researchers develop new methods of early cancer diagnosis, such as liquid biopsy and molecular diagnosis.

5. Cancer prevention: Research is aimed at identifying risk factors for cancer and developing cancer prevention strategies.

This detailed review of oncology and early diagnosis gives an exhaustive idea of ​​the difficulties of the disease, and also emphasizes the importance of early detection and prevention. Information about the symptoms, risk factors and affordable screening methods plays a decisive role in improving the results of treatment and reducing the burden of cancer.