September 2, 2024
Silent Killers: Subtle Signs of Cancer You Shouldn't Miss
Cancer is a word that evokes fear in many, often associated with aggressive symptoms and difficult treatments. However, cancer doesn’t always announce itself loudly. It can be a silent killer, quietly advancing within the body, sometimes presenting symptoms that are easily overlooked. Understanding these subtle signs and knowing when to seek medical advice can be crucial in early detection and successful treatment.
Unexplained Weight Loss
One of the earliest and most common signs of cancer is unexplained weight loss. While many people might welcome sudden weight loss, it can be a cause for concern if it happens without any changes in diet or physical activity. This could be a sign of cancers such as those affecting the stomach, pancreas, oesophagus, or lungs. If you find yourself losing weight rapidly and without reason, it’s essential to seek medical advice.
Persistent Fatigue
We all experience tiredness from time to time, especially with busy schedules and demanding lives. However, cancer-related fatigue is different. It’s a kind of exhaustion that doesn’t go away even after rest. This type of fatigue could be an early sign of cancers such as leukaemia or colon cancer. If you’re feeling persistently drained and it’s affecting your daily life, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional.
Skin Changes
The skin can be a window to your overall health. Changes in the skin’s appearance, such as new moles, changes in existing moles, or sores that don’t heal, can be early indicators of skin cancer. Additionally, darkening, yellowing, or reddening of the skin, as well as excessive hair growth, can also signal internal cancers. Any persistent skin changes should be evaluated by a doctor.
Persistent Pain
While pain can have many causes, persistent, unexplained pain can sometimes be a sign of cancer. For instance, chronic headaches that don’t respond to treatment could be an indicator of a brain tumour, while persistent back pain could be associated with ovarian or colon cancer. It’s important not to dismiss any ongoing pain and to seek a thorough evaluation.
Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits
Changes in bowel or bladder habits are often among the first signs of cancers in the digestive or urinary systems. This might include persistent constipation, diarrhoea, blood in the stool, or frequent urination. While these symptoms can be caused by a variety of conditions, they shouldn’t be ignored, especially if they persist over time.
Difficulty Swallowing
Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of food getting stuck in your throat can be a sign of throat or oesophageal cancer. While these symptoms can also be associated with other conditions such as acid reflux, they should be taken seriously if they persist. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
Persistent Cough or Hoarseness
A cough that doesn’t go away or hoarseness that lingers could be a sign of lung or throat cancer. These symptoms are often mistaken for less serious conditions, such as a cold or allergies. However, if they persist for more than a few weeks, it’s important to get them checked out by a healthcare professional.
Unexplained Bleeding or Discharge
Unexplained bleeding can occur in various parts of the body and can be an early sign of cancer. For instance, coughing up blood could indicate lung cancer, while blood in the stool might suggest colon cancer. Unusual vaginal bleeding can be a sign of cervical or endometrial cancer. Any unexplained bleeding or discharge should be promptly evaluated by a doctor.
Comprehensive Cancer Care at Asiri AOI Cancer Centre
Recognising the subtle signs of cancer is only the first step. Once a concern is identified, it’s crucial to seek comprehensive and advanced medical care. At Asiri AOI Cancer Centre, we understand the complexity of cancer care, from diagnosis to multi-modality clinical treatment, and the intense emotional support needed by both patients and caregivers.
PET-CT Scans: A Powerful Diagnostic Tool
A key component of our comprehensive cancer care is the use of Positron Emission Tomography and Computed Tomography (PET-CT) scans. Asiri AOI is proud to be the only facility in the local private sector offering PET-CT scans, ensuring uninterrupted service throughout the year.
PET-CT scans are crucial in detecting cancer and identifying its stage. Unlike traditional imaging methods such as CT or MRI, which primarily provide structural details of the organ, a PET-CT scan combines functional and anatomical imaging. This allows for a more accurate diagnosis by detecting changes in cellular function, such as how cells use glucose. Cancer cells, which have a higher metabolic rate, show up as bright spots on PET-CT scans, making it easier to distinguish between benign and malignant tumours.
At Asiri AOI, our Discovery 600 PET-CT machine combines two powerful imaging technologies to provide a detailed view of the tumour’s size, shape, and location. This advanced technology even accounts for variations when patients move or breathe, offering the most precise imaging possible.
Advanced Radiation Treatment: TrueBeam STx Linear Accelerator
In addition to diagnostic excellence, Asiri AOI Cancer Centre offers the most advanced radiation treatment available in Sri Lanka. Our TrueBeam STx Linear Accelerator represents the pinnacle of precision and power in cancer treatment. This state-of-the-art technology allows us to target tumours with unmatched accuracy, sparing healthy tissues and reducing treatment times.
The TrueBeam STx system is capable of delivering high doses of radiation with pinpoint accuracy, making it ideal for treating complex cases, including tumours located in challenging areas. This advanced treatment option is part of our commitment to offering the best possible care to our patients, giving them the greatest chance of successful outcomes.
Cancer is a silent killer, often presenting subtle signs that can easily be missed. By staying aware of these signs and seeking prompt medical attention, early detection and treatment become more achievable. At Asiri AOI Cancer Centre, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive cancer care, from advanced diagnostic tools like PET-CT scans to cutting-edge treatments with the TrueBeam STx Linear Accelerator. Your health is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
