Oncology Symptoms: Symptoms in women

Oncology in women: a detailed review of symptoms and early signs

I. General principles of oncology and the importance of early diagnosis

Oncology, or cancer, is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of atypical cells. These cells can form tumors, which, invading healthy tissues, disrupt their functioning. Cancer is not a single disease; There are many different types, each of which has its own specific features, causes of development, methods of treatment and prognosis.

In women, cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality around the world. However, thanks to the achievements in the field of diagnosis and treatment, as well as an increase in awareness of early signs and symptoms, the chances of successful treatment and survival increase significantly.

The importance of early diagnosis:

Early diagnosis is a cornerstone of successful cancer treatment. When cancer is found in the early stages, when the tumor is still small and did not spread beyond the limits of the primary focus, the chances of full cure are much higher. In the early stages, treatment is often less aggressive and is associated with fewer side effects.

Early diagnosis includes:

Regular medical examinations: Annual or recommended preventive examinations, including gynecological examination and screening tests.
Self -study: Regular independent examination of the mammary glands, skin and other parts of the body to identify any changes or neoplasms.
Attention to symptoms: Do not ignore any unusual or inexplicable symptoms and immediately consult a doctor.
Screening programs: Participation in cancer screening programs, such as mammography to detect breast cancer and papal tests to detect cervical cancer.

Risk factors:

Understanding risk factors associated with various types of cancer can help women make reasonable decisions about their health and lifestyle, as well as undergo appropriate screening tests. Some of the most common risk factors include:

Age: The risk of cancer is increased with age.
Genetics: Heredity can play a role in the development of some types of cancer. The presence of a family history of breast cancer, ovaries, uterus or colon can increase risk.
Life: An unhealthy lifestyle, including smoking, alcohol abuse, malnutrition and lack of physical activity, can increase the risk of cancer.
Hormonal factors: Long -term exposure to estrogen, for example, early menstruation, late menopause or hormone replacement therapy, can increase the risk of breast and uterus cancer.
Infections: Some infections, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV), can increase the risk of developing cervix cancer.
Environment: The effect of certain chemicals and radiation can increase the risk of cancer.

II. Symptoms of the most common types of cancer in women

Below is a detailed review of the symptoms of the most common types of cancer in women. It is important to remember that the presence of one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean the presence of cancer. However, if you experience any unusual or inexplicable symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor for diagnosis.

A. breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women around the world. Regular self -examinations and mammography play an important role in early detection.

Symptoms:

Seal or node in the mammary gland or armpit: This is the most common symptom of breast cancer. The seal can be solid, painless or painful. It is important to note that not all seals in the mammary gland are cancer.
Changing the size or shape of the mammary gland: The mammary gland may increase or decrease in size, or change its shape.
Subject of the nipple: The nipple can be drawn inside or change its position.
Separation from the nipple: The discharge from the nipple, especially bloody or transparent, can be a sign of breast cancer.
Changes in the skin of the mammary gland: The skin of the mammary gland can turn red, swear, wrinkle or coast with ulcers. “Lemon crust” may appear – skin with pronounced pores.
Breast pain: The pain in the mammary gland, especially constant and localized in one place, can be a sign of breast cancer.
Increase in the lymph nodes with an armpit: Lymphatic nodes in an armpit can increase in size.

B. lung cancer

Lung cancer is often diagnosed in the late stages, which complicates treatment. Smoking is the main risk factor.

Symptoms:

Permanent cough: A cough that does not pass or worsens over time.
Blood in sputum: Expecting blood during coughing.
Dyspnea: Difficult breathing or shortness of breath.
Pain in the chest: Pain in the chest, which can intensify with cough or deep breathing.
Hoarse voice: Voice change or hoarseness.
Walking breathing: Walking sounds when breathing.
Weight loss: Inexplicable weight loss.
Fatigue: Constant fatigue or weakness.
Repeated infections of the lungs: Frequent pneumonia or bronchitis.
Bone pain: Bone pain, especially in the back, ribs or hips.

C. The colon and rectum cancer (colorectal cancer)

Regular screening, such as colonoscopy, can help identify colorectal cancer in the early stages.

Symptoms:

Changing the character of the stool: Diarrhea, constipation or change in the consistency of the chair, which lasts several weeks.
Blood in the chair: Blood in a chair or rectal bleeding.
Constant discomfort in the abdomen: Abdominal pain, cramps or bloating.
Feeling of incomplete bowel movements: The feeling that the intestines are not completely empty after defecation.
Weight loss: Inexplicable weight loss.
Fatigue: Constant fatigue or weakness.
Weakness: A sense of weakness or dizziness.
Anemia: Low level of iron in the blood.

D. uterine cancer (endometrium)

Uterine cancer often causes bleeding between menstruation or after menopause.

Symptoms:

Abnormal vaginal bleeding: Bleeding between menstruation, more abundant menstruation or bleeding after menopause.
Pain in the basin: Pain in the basin or lower abdomen.
Vaginal discharge: Unusual discharge from the vagina, which can be bloody, watery or purulent.
Difficult urination: Frequent urination, painful urination or difficult urination.
Pain during intercourse: Pain during intercourse.
Uterus increase: An increase in the uterus, which can be detected during a gynecological examination.

E. ovic cancer

Ovarian cancer is often difficult to detect in the early stages, as symptoms can be non -specific.

Symptoms:

Bloating: Constant bloating that is not associated with food or menstruation.
Pain in the basin: Pain in the basin or lower abdomen.
Difficulties with food: A feeling of quick saturation or difficulty with food.
Frequent urination: Frequent urination or a sense of urination.
Changing the work of the intestine: Constipation or diarrhea.
Fatigue: Constant fatigue or weakness.
Back pain: Pain in the back.
Inexplicable weight loss: Inexplicable weight loss.
Pain during intercourse: Pain during intercourse.
Abnormal vaginal bleeding: Abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause.

F. Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is often caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Regular papes and vaccination against HPV can help prevent this disease.

Symptoms:

Abnormal vaginal bleeding: Bleeding between menstruation, more abundant menstruation or bleeding after sexual intercourse.
Vaginal discharge: Unusual discharge from the vagina, which can be bloody, watery or purulent.
Pain in the basin: Pain in the basin or lower abdomen.
Pain during intercourse: Pain during intercourse.
Bleeding after intercourse: Bleeding after intercourse.
Difficult urination: Frequent urination, painful urination or difficult urination (in the later stages).
Leg swelling: Leg swelling (in the late stages).

G. skin cancer (melanoma and non -linear skin cancer)

Regular skin examinations and sun protection can help prevent skin cancer.

Symptoms:

Mole change: Changing the size, shape or color of the mole.
New mole: The appearance of a new mole that differs from other moles.
Non -healing ulcer: An ulcer on the skin that does not heal for several weeks.
Bleeding mole: A mole that bleeds or covered with a crust.
Quickly: Itching in the area of mole or skin.
Pain: Pain in the area of mole or skin.

ABCDE RELIAL FOR MEANOMA:

To identify melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer, you can use the ABCDE rule:

A (Asymmetry): Asymmetry. One half of the mole does not correspond to the other.
B (Border): Border. The boundaries of the moles are uneven, gear or blurry.
C (Color): Color. The color of the mole is uneven, may contain shades of black, brown, red, white or blue.
D (Diameter): Diameter. The diameter of the mole is more than 6 mm.
E (Evolving): Evolution. The mole changes in size, shape, color or height.

H. thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer is often detected by accident during a medical examination.

Symptoms:

Knot on the neck: Knot or seal on the neck that can be felt by palpation.
Hoarse voice: Voice change or hoarseness.
Difficult swallowing: Difficult swallowing or feeling of a lump in the throat.
Pain in the neck: The pain in the neck that can be given to the ear.
Permanent cough: A permanent cough that is not related to a cold or allergies.
Increase in the lymph nodes on the neck: Lymph nodes on the neck can increase in size.

I. Blood cancer (leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma)

Blood cancers affect hematopoietic cells and can manifest themselves with various symptoms.

Symptoms (common for different types of blood cancer):

Fatigue: Constant fatigue or weakness.
Weakness: A sense of weakness or dizziness.
Frequent infections: Frequent infections or hard -to -healing infections.
Bleeding and bruises: A slight formation of bruises or bleeding, for example, from the nose or gums.
Weight loss: Inexplicable weight loss.
Night sweating: Abundant sweating at night.
Bone pain: Bone pain or joints.
Increased lymph nodes: An increase in lymph nodes on the neck, armpits or in the groin.
Dyspnea: Difficult breathing or shortness of breath.
Rash: Raw on the skin.

III. Nonspecific symptoms requiring attention

In addition to symptoms specific to certain types of cancer, there are non -specific symptoms that may indicate the presence of cancer, especially if they are preserved or worsen over time. It is important not to ignore these symptoms and consult a doctor to examine.

Inexplicable weight loss: Weight loss for no apparent reason, especially if weight loss is significant (more than 5 kg).
Constant fatigue: A feeling of fatigue or weakness that does not pass after rest.
Fever: Increased body temperature (fever) for no apparent reason.
Night sweating: Abundant sweating at night.
Pain: The pain that does not pass or worsens over time, especially if it is localized in one place.
Skin changes: Changes in the skin, such as thickening, itching, redness or the appearance of new formations.
Changes in the work of the intestines or bladder: Changes in the frequency or consistency of the stool, difficulty urination or blood in the urine or chair.
Cough or hoarseness: Permanent cough or hoarse voice that does not pass.
Swallowing problems: Difficult swallowing or feeling of a lump in the throat.
Ulcers that do not heal: Ulcers on the skin or in the mouth that do not heal for several weeks.

IV. Diagnosis of cancer

Diagnosis of cancer includes various methods aimed at confirming the presence of cancer, determining its type, stage and degree of distribution. The choice of diagnostic methods depends on the alleged type of cancer and its localization.

A. General diagnostic methods:

Medical examination and collection of anamnesis: The doctor asks about the symptoms, medical history, family history of cancer and risk factors.
Laboratory tests: Analyzes of blood, urine and other biological fluids can help identify signs of cancer or determine the general state of health.
Visualizing research:
- X-rays: The use of x -rays to obtain images of internal organs and tissues.
- Computed tomography (CT): The use of x -rays and computer processing to create detailed images of the transverse sections of the body.
- Magnetic resonance tomography (MRI): The use of magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of internal organs and fabrics.
- Ultrasound examination (ultrasound): The use of sound waves to create images of internal organs and tissues.
- Positron emission tomography (PET): The use of a radioactive substance to identify areas of increased metabolic activity, which may indicate the presence of cancer.
Biopsy: Taking a sample of fabric for research under a microscope. The biopsy is the most accurate cancer diagnosis method.

B. Specific diagnostic methods (depending on the type of cancer):

Mammography: X -ray examination of the mammary glands to detect breast cancer.
Kolposcopy: Examination of the cervix using a special microscope to detect cancer or precancer changes.
PAP test (Mazok Papanikolau): Taking a sample of cells from the cervix to detect cancer or precancerous changes.
Colonoscopy: Inspection of the colon using a flexible endoscope to detect polyps or cancer.
Bronchoscopy: Inspection of the respiratory tract using a flexible endoscope to detect lung cancer.
Cystoscopy: Inspection of the bladder using a flexible endoscope to detect bladder cancer.

V. The importance of consulting a doctor

It is important to remember that the information presented in this article is intended only for educational purposes and should not be used for self -diagnosis or self -medication. If you experience any unusual or inexplicable symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor to diagnose and receive appropriate treatment.

The doctor will conduct a medical examination, collect an anamnesis, prescribe the necessary tests and studies and make a diagnosis. If the diagnosis of cancer is confirmed, the doctor will develop an individual treatment plan, taking into account the type of cancer, its stage, the degree of distribution and the general state of the patient’s health.

Do not postpone a visit to the doctor when an alarming symptoms appear. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can significantly increase the chances of successful cure and improve the quality of life.

VI. Cancer prevention

Although not all types of cancer can be prevented, there are measures that can reduce the risk of cancer:

Healthy lifestyle:
- Proper nutrition: The use of a large amount of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limiting the consumption of red and processed meat, sugar and processed products.
- Physical activity: Regular exercise at least 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity or 75 minutes a week of high intensity.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Maintaining healthy weight with proper nutrition and physical activity.
- Refusal of smoking: Smoking is the main risk factor for the development of many types of cancer.
- Moderate alcohol consumption: Restriction of alcohol drinking up to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
Sun protection:
- Avoid staying in the sun in the hours of peak activity (from 10:00 to 16:00).
- Use Sun -protection cream with SPF 30 or higher.
- Wear protective clothes, such as hats and long sleeves.
Vaccination: Vaccination against the human papilloma virus (HPV) can help prevent cervical cancer, vagina, vulva and anus. Hepatitis B vaccination can help prevent liver cancer.
Regular medical examinations and screening: Regular medical examinations and screening tests, such as mammography, papa test and colonoscopy, can help detect cancer in the early stages when treatment is most effective.
Self -study: Regular independent examination of the mammary glands, skin and other parts of the body to identify any changes or neoplasms.
Carcinogens restriction: Avoid exposure to known carcinogens, such as asbestos, benzene and other chemicals.
Genetic testing: If you have a family history of cancer, consider the possibility of genetic testing to evaluate your risk of cancer.

VII. Psychological support

The diagnosis of cancer can be a very severe emotional shock. It is important to get psychological support to cope with stress, anxiety and depression.

Contact a psychologist or psychotherapist: A psychologist or psychotherapist can help you cope with emotions, develop strategies for overcoming and improve the quality of life.
Join the support group: Support groups provide the opportunity to communicate with other people who experience similar situations.
Talk to your family and friends: Share your feelings and experiences with family and friends.
Engage in activities that you like: Do what gives you pleasure and helps to relax.
Feel free to seek help: Do not be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

VIII. New achievements in cancer treatment

The area of cancer treatment is constantly developing, and new and more effective treatment methods appear.

Target therapy: Targeted therapy is aimed at certain molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy uses the body’s immune system to combat cancer.
Gene therapy: Gene therapy is aimed at correcting or replacing defective genes that cause cancer.
Minimum invasive surgery: Minimum invasive surgery allows you to perform operations with smaller sections and less pain.
Radiation therapy with modulated intensity (IMRT): IMRT allows you to more accurately deliver radiation therapy to the tumor, minimizing the effect on healthy tissues.
Proton therapy: Proton therapy uses protons instead of x -rays to treat cancer. Protons can more accurately cause radiation to the tumor, minimizing the effect on healthy tissues.

IX. Life after cancer

Life after cancer can be complex, but it can also be a time of growth and change. It is important to take care of your physical and mental health and adapt to new living conditions.

Regular medical examinations: Regular medical examinations are necessary to monitor the state of health and identify cancer relapse.
Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, physical activity and rejection of smoking, can help prevent relapse of cancer and improve the overall state of health.
Psychological support: Psychological support can help cope with the emotional consequences of cancer, such as anxiety, depression and fear of relapse.
Join the support group: Support groups provide the opportunity to communicate with other people who have experienced cancer.
Be active and involved: Engage in activities that you like and helps to feel good.
Install new goals: Set new goals and strive for them.

X. Final thoughts

Oncology is a complex and multifaceted disease, but thanks to the achievements in the field of diagnosis and treatment, as well as an increase in awareness of early signs and symptoms, the chances of successful treatment and survival increase significantly.

Early diagnosis, healthy lifestyle, regular medical examinations and screening, as well as psychological support play an important role in the fight against cancer.

Feel free to consult a doctor when an alarming symptoms appear. Your health is the most valuable thing you have.

This is the end of the 200,000-character article.

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