Don’t ignore what could be
early signs of cancer in yourself.
You'd notice it in your pet. Don't ignore it in yourself.
If your dog or cat stopped eating, developed a lump or started losing weight, you'd notice straight away. You wouldn't wait to see if it got better. You'd get it checked.
We often show our pets and those we love that same care and attention, but when it comes to our own health, it's easy to put things off. We tell ourselves we're too busy, it's probably nothing, or it'll go away on its own.
Most symptoms will have a harmless explanation. But some can be signs of something more serious, including cancer. Finding problems early can make a real difference.
If you notice any of the symptoms below, don't ignore them. Contact your GP practice. It's probably nothing, but it's worth checking.
Know the red flag symptoms
Very heavy night sweats or an unexplained fever
Heavy, drenching night sweats or an unexplained fever can sometimes be caused by infections, medication or hormonal changes. But if you have very heavy night sweats or a fever with no obvious cause, speak to your GP practice.
Unexplained bleeding or bruising
Bleeding or bruising without an obvious cause should always be checked. This includes coughing up blood, vomiting blood, or blood in your urine or poo. Blood can be bright red or much darker in colour. Whatever the amount, contact your GP practice.
Fatigue that won't go away
Feeling tired from time to time is normal. But if you're exhausted all the time, or your tiredness has no clear cause and isn't improving, it's worth getting checked.
Persistent or unexplained pain
Pain is your body's way of telling you something isn't right. If you have pain or an ache that doesn't go away, gets worse or changes over time, speak to your GP practice.
Unexplained weight loss
Losing weight without trying isn't something to ignore. If you've noticed a significant change, or people around you have commented that you've lost weight, arrange an appointment with your GP practice.
A lump or swelling anywhere
A lump or swelling that doesn't go away should always be checked. This includes your neck, armpit, chest, breast, stomach, groin or testicles, or anywhere else on your body.
Breathlessness
It’s not unusual to feel out of breath every now and then. But if you notice that you’re feeling breathless more than usual, all the time, or for no reason, speak to your GP.
Persistent cough
If a cough doesn’t go away in three weeks or you notice blood when you cough up phlegm, it’s best to speak to your GP.
It's probably nothing. But if it's something,
finding it early matters.
Most people with these symptoms won't have cancer. But if something doesn't feel right, don't wait to see if it gets worse.
Just as you'd never ignore a change in your pet, don't ignore one in yourself.
Contact your GP practice if you notice any of these symptoms.
Early diagnosis can make treatment more successful, and may mean simpler treatment with better outcomes.
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