Four symptoms that wont go away that could signal cancer
Cancer symptoms: Top 14 early signs to look out for
Cancer is one of the biggest killers in the UK, accounting for around a quarter of all deaths.
As with any disease the sooner you catch the symptoms the sooner you can seek the appropriate treatment.
Your symptoms will depend on the type of cancer you have and its location in the body.
Some won’t appear until the disease is more advanced.
However, there are other signs that can appear in the early stages, giving someone the chance of an early diagnosis.
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According to Cancer Research UK, there are four symptoms that could signal cancer if they are “persistent” and “won’t go away”.
These include:
- Mouth or tongue ulcer or patch that won’t heal
- Persistent cough
- A sore that won’t heal
- Persistent heartburn or indigestion.
The charity listed these as “key” signs of cancer.
“Most signs and symptoms listed here are caused by something less serious than cancer – but if it is cancer, spotting it early can make a real difference,” it says.
“If you notice any changes that are not normal for you, or something that won’t go away – don’t ignore it, speak to your doctor.
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“Whether it’s on this list or not, get it checked out.”
Mouth or tongue ulcer
An ulcer that takes longer to heal than three weeks should be checked out by a professional as it could be a sign of mouth or oropharyngeal cancer.
Cancer Research UK explains: “It’s common to get ulcers (small sores) in the mouth when you’re a bit run down – they usually get better in about two weeks.
“But you should report an ulcer or red or white patch that doesn’t heal after three weeks to your doctor or dentist.”
Cough
This symptom could also be accompanied by hoarseness or a croaky voice.
Cancer Research UK warns: “Coughs are common with colds and some other health conditions.
“But if a cough doesn’t go away in a few weeks or gets worse, it could be a sign of cancer.
“Symptoms of lung cancer can include a cough that won’t go away and breathlessness.”
Skin sores
Sores on the skin should be monitored in case they don’t heal.
“The skin repairs itself very quickly and any damage usually heals within a week or so,” the charity says.
“When a spot, wart or sore doesn’t heal, even if it’s painless, a doctor needs to check it.”
This could be a symptom of skin cancer along with changes to the skin and a new mole or mole that changes.
Heartburn or indigestion
“It is normal to feel slight discomfort or pain sometimes after eating a large, fatty or spicy meal,” Cancer Research UK adds.
“But if you have heartburn (acid reflux) or indigestion a lot, or if it is particularly painful, then you should see your doctor.”
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