5 Warning Signs Of Cervical Cancer You Should Stop Ignoring
Posted on: 5 April 2016
Following a well-balanced diet and exercise plan is important for your underlying health, but medical conditions may still develop due to environmental conditions or genetics. In many cases, there is no reasoning behind why certain illnesses and diseases occur. Unfortunately, an estimated 12,990 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, sometimes without any explanation of the cause. Since 4,120 of patients suffering with cervical cancer pass away each year, learning the warning signs of this disease is essential. Using this guide, you will understand some of the early warning signs of cervical cancer to ensure you receive efficient, effective treatment if you have this condition.
Irregular Bleeding
Every woman's menstrual cycle is different, so it can be difficult to understand this warning sign of cervical cancer. However, irregular bleeding is a common warning sign of cervical cancer that should be taken seriously. If you are experiencing the following, schedule an exam with your gynecologist immediately:
- Bleeding between periods
- Bleeding during intercourse
- Bleeding after intercourse
- Heavier bleeding
- Longer periods
- Bleeding after menopause
Pain
Pain is a common sign of many medical conditions, but this discomfort can also be an early warning sign of cervical cancer.
Dyspareunia, or pain during sexual intercourse, may occur. Throbbing, aching, and burning pain during penetration and through the actual movements can be an early sign of cervical cancer. In addition, pain that lasts for a few hours after intercourse is also common in patients with cervical cancer.
Hydronephrosis is also common in patients with cervical cancer. This condition causes the kidneys to swell, increasing the risk of painful kidney stones and discomfort in your back and pelvic area.
While surprising to hear, leg pain is also an early warning sign. Since the cancer causes the cervix to swell, this swelling and inflammation will prevent blood flow to the leg, resulting in pain and discomfort in one or both legs.
Vaginal Discharge
Light discharge from the vagina is normal, but excessive amounts of foul smelling discharge may stem from a more involved condition.
A thick discharge that resembles cottage cheese is most likely due to a yeast or bacterial infections. However, if the vaginal discharge is watery, brown, or tinged with blood, it may be a sign of cervical cancer.
Weight Loss
Losing weight without following a special diet and exercise plan is actually an early warning sign of most types of cancer, but unexplained weight loss with one or more of the above symptoms is most likely due to cervical cancer.
If you are experiencing weight loss and other symptoms, visit your gynecologist immediately for a full evaluation.
Urinary Issues
If you see blood in the toilet after using the bathroom, you may believe it stems from your menstrual cycle or other irregular bleeding. However, having slight traces of blood in your urine may be a sign of cervical cancer.
Hematuria, or bloody urine, can be diagnosed through a simple urine test, so be sure your gynecologist takes a urine sample during your next exam. Of course, hematuria may also stem from other urinary or bladder issues such as the following:
- Kidney, bladder, or urinary tract infections
- Kidney or bladder stones
- Kidney or bladder cancer
- Kidney failure or kidney disease
- Injury to the kidney or bladder
- Blood disorders such as hemophilia, clotting, sickle cell disease, or thrombocytopenia
- Blood-thinning medications
Cancer of the cervix may spread into the urinary system, causing irritation and inflammation of the bladder and urinary tract. If you are experiencing pain while urinating, make sure to notify your doctor of this issue.
It is important to note that these warning signs do not always result in a cervical cancer diagnosis. While these early signs may not seem important, you should consult your doctor for a complete exam. You can also contact a local oncology expert for more information.
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