• Published on: Sep 02, 2021
  • 3 minute read
  • By: Cancer Expert

What Are The First Signs Of Cancer?

  • WhatsApp share link icon
  • copy & share link icon
  • twitter share link icon
  • facebook share link icon

What are the first signs of cancer?

Depending on the type of cancer, specific signs and symptoms will vary. There is no single symptom or sign that always indicates cancer.

For example:

  • A mole may change including color, texture, thickness, and shape over time and these changes need to be monitored by a physician.
  •  Lumps in the breast may be discomforting or painful as well as noted distinct changes such as size, shape, or hardness.
  • A new cough that can't be cured can signal lung cancer which includes blood in phlegm circulation as well as an abrupt onset of coughing up clear mucus than thick blood-tinged mucus; shortness of breath; weakness; night sweats; fever & weight loss due to infectious complications from treatment

If you have any skin change, mole growth, sores in your mouth or on the outside of your body, or bleeding from anywhere including nosebleeds. You have no appetite and can't keep food down. Or there is weight loss in a short amount of time. Your breathing has a funny smell to it because you're not getting any oxygen into the lungs where there's supposed to be blood going through this way that's sign number two that something might be wrong because usually when somebody would have cancer, they'll notice these red marks on their bodies kind of like what I'm talking about if somebody had chickenpox before they would get these weather marks. And lastly for this one vomiting up blood or fresh blood from somewhere

The first signs of cancer might be a general sense of fatigue and lack of energy, which can come and go, and many patients won't know that this is something to worry about. Other symptoms include night sweats or problems with sleep due to pain or difficulty breathing. The most common problem people might notice is a change in bowel habits such as diarrhea alternating with constipation. There may also be warning signs such as coughing up blood, unexplained weight loss, fevers that last more than three days without other cause (such as an infection), bleeding from the vagina in women who are not on their menstrual cycle (or vaginal bleeding after menopause), blurred vision without previous eye problems (which does not respond

Signs of cancer can include a unique smell coming from the mouth, swollen glands in the neck, a lump on a breast or testicle, tonsillitis with prolonged fever, and sensitivity to light.

But also, beware of false alarms! Some people have white patches on their tonsils or spotty saliva that they mistake for early signs of oral cancer. That's often because they have been abnormally dry from excessive inhalation of smoke-related toxins such as formaldehyde, chromium, and nickel. In most cases, these spots are nothing more than one side effect from this kind of chronic exposure - along with loss of taste sensation and dental problems - but it still does require medical attention.

Soon after, swelling in lymph nodes typically begins to develop under the arm or in the neck. Lymphocytes are white blood cells that are responsible for defending the body against infection. The high levels of lymphocytes cause them to congregate in certain areas, generating swollen lymph nodes which feel hard and moveable.

The first sign of cancer is bloody stool. If you are a suspect, speak to your doctor immediately. Second Medic consultation online will help you have a diagnosis of any diseases at the early stages so that treatment can be started in good time.

It depends on where the cancer is in your body, but some common first signs of cancer include painless lumps, swelling in one area that doesn't go away with time, unexplained weight gain or loss, easy bruising, or bleeding for no known reason. If you experience any of these symptoms you should consult a medical professional immediately.

The first sign of cancer is also when you don't feel well. Then, consult a medical professional urgently.

The most important step in preventing cancer is being proactive about your health. Cancer doesn't just happen out of nowhere, it's usually the culmination of bad lifestyle choices (smoking, overeating, not enough sleep) and neglecting oneself--our bodies are fragile machines that require constant upkeep. If we find ourselves feeling bad for an extended period of time then there may be something beyond our control at play--seek medical attention ASAP to get down to the root cause!

The first signs of cancer are typically the formation of a lump, such as a tumor. Lumps can be painless and yet still lead to potential health problems. If you suspect that you have any type of abnormal swelling or lumps in your breast or another area, contact your physician immediately.

The next thing to note is the color and feel of the skin:

  • Is there an unnatural change in skin color?
  • Are skin lesions present?
  • Do you have any unexplained bruising or bleeding anywhere on your body?

Are there new areas on your skin that appear discolored and blotchy? These could be patches from birthmarks too but it's best to get them checked out by a dermatologist

Read Blog
Insufficient water intake

How Poor Hydration Affects Joint Health: Why Water Matters for Mobility

Water is essential for nearly every function in the human body, yet many people underestimate its importance for joint health. While hydration is commonly associated with digestion and skin health, it also plays a crucial role in maintaining smooth and pain-free joint movement.

Understanding how poor hydration affects joint health can help prevent stiffness, discomfort and long-term mobility issues.

 

The Role of Water in Joint Function

Joints are where two bones meet, allowing movement and flexibility. Healthy joints rely on:

  • Cartilage
     

  • Synovial fluid
     

  • Ligaments
     

  • Tendons
     

Cartilage, which cushions bones, contains a high percentage of water. Synovial fluid acts as a lubricant, reducing friction during movement.

Proper hydration ensures these components function effectively.

 

What Happens When You Are Dehydrated?

When the body lacks sufficient water:

  • Synovial fluid production may decrease
     

  • Cartilage may lose elasticity
     

  • Joint cushioning becomes less effective
     

This can result in stiffness and discomfort.

 

1. Reduced Joint Lubrication

Synovial fluid requires adequate hydration to maintain volume and viscosity.

Without enough water:

  • Friction between bones increases
     

  • Movement becomes less smooth
     

  • Risk of wear and tear rises
     

 

2. Increased Joint Stiffness

Dehydration may cause joints to feel tight, especially:

  • In the morning
     

  • After prolonged sitting
     

  • During physical activity
     

Stiffness may limit flexibility.

 

3. Higher Risk of Injury

Poorly lubricated joints may be more prone to:

  • Sprains
     

  • Strains
     

  • Cartilage damage
     

Hydration supports tissue resilience.

 

4. Worsening of Existing Joint Conditions

Individuals with conditions such as osteoarthritis may experience increased discomfort if hydration is inadequate.

While water does not cure arthritis, it supports overall joint function.

 

5. Reduced Nutrient Delivery

Water helps transport nutrients to joint tissues.

Dehydration may impair circulation and nutrient exchange, slowing tissue repair.

 

Signs of Dehydration That May Affect Joints

  • Dry mouth
     

  • Dark urine
     

  • Fatigue
     

  • Headaches
     

  • Muscle cramps
     

  • Joint stiffness
     

Recognizing early dehydration signs prevents complications.

 

How Much Water Do You Need?

Hydration needs vary depending on:

  • Body weight
     

  • Climate
     

  • Physical activity level
     

  • Health conditions
     

On average, adults may require 2–3 liters of water daily.

In hot climates such as India, higher intake may be necessary due to increased sweating.

 

Tips to Maintain Proper Hydration

1. Drink Water Regularly

Do not wait until you feel thirsty.

 

2. Eat Water-Rich Foods

Include:

  • Cucumbers
     

  • Watermelon
     

  • Oranges
     

  • Tomatoes
     

 

3. Limit Excessive Caffeine and Alcohol

These may contribute to fluid loss.

 

4. Carry a Water Bottle

Keeping water accessible encourages consistent intake.

5. Hydrate Before and After Exercise

Physical activity increases fluid loss through sweat.

 

Hydration and Joint Health in India

In India’s hot and humid climate, dehydration is common, especially during summer months.

Outdoor workers, athletes and elderly individuals are particularly vulnerable.

Maintaining adequate hydration supports not only joint health but overall wellbeing.

 

When to Consult a Doctor

Seek medical advice if you experience:

  • Persistent joint pain
     

  • Swelling
     

  • Limited range of motion
     

  • Redness or warmth around joints
     

These may indicate underlying joint disorders requiring evaluation.

 

Conclusion

Poor hydration can negatively affect joint health by reducing lubrication, increasing stiffness and raising injury risk. Since cartilage and synovial fluid depend heavily on water, maintaining adequate hydration is essential for smooth movement and long-term mobility.

Drinking sufficient water daily is a simple yet powerful step toward protecting joint health. Combined with regular exercise and balanced nutrition, proper hydration supports active and pain-free living.

Small daily hydration habits can make a significant difference in how your joints feel and function.

 

References

  • Indian Council of Medical Research – Hydration Guidelines

  • World Health Organization – Water and Health Resources

  • Indian Journal of Orthopaedics – Joint Health Studies

  • National Institute of Nutrition India – Fluid Intake Recommendations

  • Journal of Sports Medicine – Hydration and Musculoskeletal Health Research

See all

Live Doctor consultation
Live Doctor Chat

Download Our App & Get Consultation from anywhere.

App Download
call icon for mobile number calling and whatsapp at secondmedic