Well, hello there, dear reader! Like a cryptic treasure map, life has a funny way of dropping signs and hints about what’s around the corner. Sometimes, we miss these signals – we’re only human! And when it comes to our health, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

This is especially true with that stubborn old beast, cancer. It’s sneaky, often slipping beneath our radar with symptoms as subtle as a ninja in flip-flops. So, let’s put on our detective hats and shine a big ol’ spotlight on 20 cancer signs that people often ignore until it’s way past tea time.

Unexplained Weight Loss

If those jeans fit too loose and not because of your latest diet, it might be time to ring the doctor’s office. Unexplained weight loss can indicate something is amiss, and cancer is often at the top of the list.

Persistent Fatigue

Constantly feeling like you’ve run a marathon, but all you did was binge-watch Netflix? It’s time to check in with your doctor.

Skin Changes

If your skin pulls a chameleon on you and changes color, or if that mole starts looking suspicious, check it.

Marleen Meyers, MD, an NYU Perlmutter Cancer Center oncologist, says, “With skin cancer, you don’t want to wait.”

Changes in Bowel Habits

If things are getting too irregular in the bathroom department, it might be more than spicy food.

Persistent Cough

If your cough hangs around longer than your clingy ex, it’s worth looking at.

Difficulty Swallowing

If swallowing becomes a chore, it’s not something to ignore.

Unusual Bleeding

Random bleeding can be as alarming as it sounds; don’t wave it off as a fluke.

Changes in Bladder Function

Is the loo calling you more often than usual? It’s not a casual issue, my friend. Head to the doctor as soo as you can.

Persistent Lumps or Swelling

Lumps on your body shouldn’t be popping up like uninvited guests. Have the doctor take a look.

Sores that Do Not Heal

I got a sore that’s taken up permanent residence. Show it the door by seeing a doctor.

Indigestion

Ongoing indigestion could be RSVP’ing you to a party you don’t want to attend – Cancer.

Changes in Existing Moles

Is a mole changing faster than your mood swings? Get it seen, too.

Unexplained Pain

Pain without reason is as puzzling as it is concerning; don’t let it slide. Herbert Lepor, MD, urology chairman at New York University Langone Medical Center, says, “Ongoing pain can signal many types of cancer, including bone or brain cancer, especially those that have spread.”

Night Sweats

If you’re sweating more at night than in the gym, it’s time to take note.

Anemia

While it’s not a ‘sign’ you’d spot yourself, it’s something your doctor could flag during routine blood work.

Unusual Lymph Nodes

Swollen lymph nodes might not just be fighting off a cold or flu.

Persistent Fever

A fever that won’t quit is like a bad joke; it gets old fast.

Difficulty Breathing

Breathing should be as easy as pie, not an uphill battle.

Unusual Bruising

Unusual bruising can be a sign of something more serious. Random black and blues should be a red flag.

Changes in Appetite

If food is losing appeal or you’re having trouble eating, it’s time to seek help.

Remember, these symptoms can also be caused by less severe conditions. So, don’t panic! But do trust your body and talk to your doctor. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, folks!