Symptoms of cancer
By John Reed on Feb 19, 2009 with Comments 0
Cancer is the second leading factor of deaths with heart diseases being the first. Though it is scary, awareness has increased and people have become more mindful of their health. Medical technologies have formulated methods which have made its detection, diagnoses and treatment possible and so prevent cancer deaths.
Cancer is the uncontrolled division and spreading of cells which cause havoc to a certain body part. The stereotyped method for cancer treatment is chemotherapy. Pills, catheter or injection are applied to infuse drugs in the body in chemotherapy. They target the cancer cells, attack them and eventually kill them. The dosage of the medication given is based on magnitude of the illness, the stage to which the cancer has advanced and the patient’s reaction to the medication. Daily, weekly and monthly sessions of therapy are arranged. Though chemotherapy has drastic side effects with the normal cells of the body being destroyed in the process and susceptibility to infections increasing, chemotherapy is a very effective cancer treatment.
Cancer has multiple causes.
Smoking: tobacco has been known to be the leading factor of cancer of lungs, larynx, mouth, pharynx, bladder, pancreas and kidneys. One million premature deaths each year are the result of smoking cigarettes.
Nutrition: carcinogens in food and food additives are also agents in leading to cancer. Chlorinated water contains carcinogens which can cause mutations and interfere with normal cell function.
Environmental factors: sunlight, radiation, air pollution, water pollution and pesticides are associated with increased risks of some cancers.
Genetics: genes and heredity factors are also involve in increasing the chances of cancer.
Cancer symptoms can become evident with the advancement of cancer stages. The most common warning symptoms that indicate the presence of cancer are given below which are often experienced in all types of cancers.
- Agitation and confusion
- Anemia
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Breathlessness
- Coughing blood
- Nausea and vomiting
- Mood changes/depression
- Insomnia
- Headache
- Pain
- Skin rashes
- Indigestion
- Change in bowel or bladder habits.
Since prevention is the solution to combat cancer it is best that the signs are detected at the earliest before it starts spreading. Cancer is a disease which is persistent and stubborn in its nature so it is crucial that it is fought with patience and perseverance. Avoid foods, beverages, drinks, body lotions and other products which are known to contain carcinogens. Make a positive change in diet and eat foods that can build up body’s defense mechanism against cancer. Quit smoking, engage in physical activity regularly, and take care of your mental health. Most importantly consult your physician and go for regular testing and health screening and commit yourself to take preventive measures before it gets too late.
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Filed Under: Cancer
