Cancer isn’t always easy to detect, and for some patients, no amount of medical technology would have been enough to know it was there earlier than it was detected. In other cases, doctors’ negligence and inaction lead to patients who have cancers that are unable to be treated or in advanced stages that may have otherwise been prevented.
What can you do if you suspect you have cancer or have found out that your doctor did not diagnose you correctly? You have a right to file a medical malpractice case. In the meantime, here are 10 signs that cancer could be an ailment you’re fighting. Although no specific symptoms are prevalent through all types of cancer, knowing some common symptoms could help save lives.
1. Bloody coughs
If you’re coughing up blood, it can mean several kinds of medical problems are taking place. Cancer is one, as is bronchitis, pneumonia and tuberculosis. Having a test is a good idea in any case, so you can identify the cause.
2. Bloody stools
Unless you’ve had recent surgery or are aware of a hernia or other issue, bloody stools are not common and can be a sign of cancer.
3. Abnormal bowel habits
Have you suddenly started dealing with constipation or diarrhea? Do you feel like you have to go to the bathroom all the time? If so, you could be dealing with colon cancer or other diseases or disorders.
4. Lumps in the testicles
Lumps in the testicles can be insignificant and from something as simple as an ingrown hair, but they can also be a sign of infection or cancer.
5. Breast discharge or lumps
While certain medications can cause discharge from the breasts, lumps and discharge together can be a bad sign of cancer. Additionally, any lumps should be investigated. They could be cancer or a sign of infection.
6. Urinary symptoms
If you suddenly need to use the restroom all the time, you may want to have a test for a urinary tract infection along with a workup to make sure you’re not struggling with bladder cancer or other forms.
7. Anemia with no explanation
When your body isn’t absorbing iron or is bleeding internally, you can become iron deficient and struggle with anemia. If you’re anemic with no known cause, cancer could be one reason behind it.
8. Hoarseness
Do you smoke? Have you struggled with abnormal hoarseness? Talk to your doctor. You could have damaged your vocal cords, have a throat infection or be dealing with cancer.
9. Swollen glands
Glands are all over the body. If you have unusually swollen glands in the neck, under the arms or in other areas, it’s worth having a medical professional take a look.
10. Changes to moles
Most moles are harmless, but if you notice jagged moles that begin to change color or shape, seeing a dermatologist could help you identify the early stages of cancer.
These are just some potential symptoms of cancer to consider. It’s important to make sure you get medical help and a second opinion if you don’t believe your doctor is providing you with the right level of care. If your doctor missed something he should have seen, your attorney can help with your malpractice case.
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