10 Cancer Warning Signs Women Often Overlook

Breast or Nipple Changes

Breast  cancer is most commonly found in women, and its symptoms are often discovered by accident. For example, lumps in the breast or armpits can be noticed during bathing, shaving, intimacy, or even itching. At the same time, look out for other abnormalities in that area, such as swelling, nipple discharge, dimpling skin,  pain, itchiness, redness, skin thickening, and nipples that point inward.

Urinary Changes

Women tend to associate the symptom of urinating frequently with pregnancy, not cancer. However, a tumor can put pressure on the bladder in the same way fetuses do. If you’re not pregnant or haven’t recently started drinking more liquids, speak to a medical professional. Increased urination is also a common symptom of diabetes, which would require immediate attention. Other symptoms of cancer can resemble those of urinary tract infections, including pain during urination and trouble with emptying the bladder.

Bowel Changes

 

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Bowel disorder symptoms are more common in women than men, according to a 2018 scientific review, but they should not be confused with signs of cancer. People used to hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) shouldn’t dismiss their symptoms if there’s a persistent change in their bowel habits (or suddenly a new habit where there used to be none). This can include: constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, weakness, tiredness, unexplained weight loss, and thin or bloody stool.