Cancer symptoms that men don’t know about
For lots of men, going to the doctor is not a regular thing and, as a result, they lose the opportunity to detect cancer symptoms early when it is more treatable.
If you are one of these men, we encourage you to be aware of the warning signs that may appear from many types cancer:
1. Problems urinating
If going to the bathroom isn’t that satisfying, or you have difficulty urinating, pay particular attention, especially if you:
Need to urinate often, especially at night.
Feel an urgent need to go to the bathroom.
Have trouble starting to urinate, or a weak or interrupted flow.
Feel a burning sensation when urinating.
Have to force your bladder to empty.
Have bloody urine or semen.
Experience sudden erectile dysfunction.
The prostate, the gland responsible for producing semen, generally causes these symptoms when enlarged, but it can also be a sign of prostate cancer.
2. Changes to testicles
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If you notice a lump, heaviness, or any other change in your testicles, get it checked out. Unlike prostate cancer, which develops slowly, testicular cancer can appear overnight.
These are some of the symptoms:
Growth or swelling in the testicle
Non-painful growth or inflammation in one of the testicles
Any change in size
Feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
Pain in the lower abdomen or groin
Build up of liquid in the scrotum
Pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum
Your doctor will look for signs of any of these symptoms during a physical exam, a blood test and an ultrasound of the scrotum.
3. Bloody urine or stools
This can also be one of the first signs of bladder, kidney or colon cancer. It is a good idea to consult your doctor about any abnormal bleeding, even if you present no other symptoms.
Although it is more likely to be caused because of something other than cancer, such as a urinary tract infection, it is important to identify and treat the cause.
4. Changes in skin
When you notice a change in size, shape or color of a freckle or mole on your skin, consult your doctor as soon as possible.
These are some changes in the skin that may be warning signs of cancer:
Yellowish skin
Bruises (hematomas) or blue/purple areas in the skin that you don’t remember getting
Pale or bluish skin, lips, or nail beds
Redness or irritation of the skin
Swelling and discoloration
Itching
New moles or moles that have changed in appearance are the main sign of skin cancer.
You may also be interested in…
What is cancer?: The basics
Causes of cancer
How do I know if I have cancer? Symptoms
How is cancer diagnosed?
5. Changes to lymph nodes
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Lymph nodes are small glands found in the neck, armpits, among other places. Sensitivity or inflammation in these glands often indicates that something in the body isn’t working properly.
Generally, it means that the immune system is fighting against a throat infection or a cold, but certain types of cancer can also be linked to these changes. Let your doctor know of any inflammation or sensitivity that does not improve after 2 to 4 weeks.
6. Difficulty swallowing
Some people have problems swallowing every now and then. But if this problem persists and you are also losing weight or vomiting, your doctor may check for throat or stomach cancer.
This will begin with a throat exam and a barium x-ray. During a barium test, you will be given a special liquid to drink that makes your tongue visible on the x-ray.
Remember, these are only the most common types of cancer in men, but you should be aware of any significant changes in your body and get regular checkups.
Detecting symptoms early allows you to start treatment as soon as possible and increase your chance of success.
Wondering whether you should share this information with your son, dad, uncle or friend? This guide could save their lives! 🙂