Bowel Habit Changes

According to a 2018 scientific review, women are more prone to bowel disorders than men. However, chronic or new-onset changes in bowel habits shouldn’t be ignored.

Persistent constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, weakness, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or stools that are thin or bloody may indicate an underlying issue, including colorectal cancer. Individuals with conditions like hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) should be particularly mindful of any unusual or worsening symptoms.

Abdominal, Pelvic, or Back Pain

While many women experience pain due to menstrual cramps or conditions like endometriosis, ongoing discomfort in the abdomen, back, or pelvic region could signal ovarian, colorectal, or endometrial cancer, according to WebMD. This type of pain is often accompanied by digestive issues such as bloating, gas, cramps, and unexplained weight loss.

Unexplained Night Sweats

Menopause and pregnancy commonly cause night sweats, but excessive sweating—especially if it occurs frequently enough to drench clothing or bed sheets—should be evaluated. Persistent night sweats without a clear cause may be linked to lymphoma or leukemia.

Changes in Appetite

Certain cancers can affect appetite in different ways. Some individuals may lose interest in eating, while others may feel full all the time. Ovarian and other abdominal cancers can cause this sensation. Additionally, tumors may make swallowing difficult, cause mouth sores, or alter how food tastes and smells, according to the National Cancer Institute. Some cancers also produce hormones that interfere with the body’s ability to recognize hunger signals.

Unintentional Weight Loss

While deliberate weight loss can lower cancer risk, unexplained and sudden weight loss may be a red flag. People who lose weight without changes in diet or exercise should consult a doctor. Cancer can alter metabolism or drain extra energy to sustain itself, leading to unintentional weight loss, according to a 2018 study.

Skin Changes

Skin cancer can develop anywhere on the body, including unexpected areas like the scalp, fingernails, and between toes. While many skin irregularities are harmless, certain symptoms warrant attention. According to Cancer Research UK, a sore that itches, bleeds, crusts, scabs, or remains unhealed for more than four weeks should be examined. Additionally, changes in the appearance of freckles or moles could indicate skin cancer.

Cancer Symptoms or Something Else?

Most cancer symptoms can also be associated with less serious conditions. If any of these warning signs seem familiar, don’t panic—but don’t ignore them either. Seek medical advice and discuss how long the symptoms have been present, as well as their severity. Doctors can help determine the root cause, whether it’s cancer or another health concern. If you feel your concerns aren’t being taken seriously, consider seeking a second opinion from another medical professional.