12:39 PM
Wednesday 07 September 2022
Books – Syed Metwally
The onset of cancer symptoms marks the beginning of a difficult journey full of uncertainty. It is difficult to pinpoint the moment when symptoms of cancer appear because they often seep into your life over a long period of time. This makes it easy to miss.
Cancer symptoms don’t usually show up but creep into your life over several months or years, according to Cancer Research UK, shortness of breath affects five to seven out of 10 cancer patients – do you have it? British Express.
Improving awareness of warning signs is vital because early detection leads to better outcomes, and although some symptoms are unique, some spread across different types of cancer, such as shortness of breath.
Shortness of breath occurs when you don’t take in enough oxygen and your lungs try to draw in more air to compensate.
According to Cancer Research UK, between five to seven in 10 cancer patients (50% to 70%) experience these symptoms at some time during their illness.
This number rises to nine in 10 (90 percent) for people with advanced lung cancer, and you’re more likely to have breathing problems if you have:
Lung Cancer
Cancer Research UK explains: “Breathing can be very unpleasant and frightening, and it can make you feel very anxious and panicked, making it even more difficult to catch your breath.”
People with cancer can have shortness of breath for many different reasons.
Once your doctor discovers the cause of your breathing problems, there is usually some type of treatment that will help you.
Other symptoms of cancer include:
fatigue
A lump or thickened area that can be felt under the skin
Weight changes, including unintended loss or gain
Skin changes, such as yellowing, darkening, or redness of the skin, sores that do not heal, or changes in existing moles
Changes in bowel or bladder habits
persistent cough
Difficulty swallowing
Hoarseness
Persistent indigestion or discomfort following eating
Persistent and unexplained muscle or joint pain
Persistent and unexplained fever or night sweats
Unexplained bleeding or bruising.
How to prepare
It’s important to be aware of any new or worrisome symptoms, although it’s not likely to be cancer, it’s important to talk to a GP so they can investigate. Finding cancer early means it’s easier to treat.
If your doctor suspects cancer, he or she will refer you to a specialist — usually within two weeks.
How to reduce your risk
Making a few simple changes to your lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk of developing cancer.
According to Macmillan Cancer Support, regarding one in three of the most common cancers (regarding 33 percent) can be prevented by eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight and being more active.
Eating a balanced diet is good for your overall health and helps reduce the risk of some types of cancer. It can also help you maintain a healthy weight.
Eating plenty of foods rich in fiber helps reduce the risk of bowel cancer.
Red and processed meat have also been linked to an increased risk of bowel and prostate cancer in several studies.
Red meat includes beef, lamb, and veal.
Several studies have found that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of developing cancer.
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