8 Key Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among the female population. Although the numbers can be terrifying, this cancer is preventable and can be treated successfully when it is detected in a timely manner. Today, we’re going to take a look at 8 possible symptoms of cervical cancer so you can catch it early.
Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer usually begins in the cells on the surface of the cervix. However, it can be diagnosed in time through a regular vaginal exam since its progression is very slow.
The first stage is a pre-cancerous condition known as dysplasia. It then takes a long time before it becomes cancer.
The main cause is human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted disease.
Although some infections disappear on their own, it can also trigger abnormal growth in the cells of the cervix.
This usually doesn’t have any obvious symptoms at first. However, there are some warning signs that may be key to its detection.
Let’s take a look at them.
Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
1. Unexplained weight loss
Sudden weight loss without a diet or exercise should never be ignored under any circumstances. Yes, that’s right, even if it is a dream come true!
This symptom may be caused by multiple factors. It appears in patients who have cervical cancer due to a loss of appetite and nutritional deficiencies.
The abnormal cellular growth can have a negative impact on your digestive health. This causes your body to stop processing nutrients properly.
2. Inflammation and fluid retention
Changes in cervical cells may also be visible due to an imbalance in the body’s inflammatory processes. In turn, this may cause your tissues to retain fluids.
Cervical cancer patients will notice inflammation in their lower abdominal area and the legs and lower body. That’s because this disease also affects the blood vessels.
This is one of the symptoms of cervical cancer that you have to pay close attention to.
3. Cystitis
Women with regular episodes of cystitis should be aware that this problem could be one of the symptoms of cervical cancer.
Although it is rare, this symptom is also the result of inflammation of the cervix and bladder due to cervical cancer.
Tumors tend to compress these organs, obstructing the passage of urine and causing pain in the urinary tract.
4. Genital warts
Genital warts are a clear sign of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is primarily responsible for the development of cervical cancer.
The small skin alterations are not only unsightly, but they tend to spread very easily.
5. Abnormal discharge
When the discharge is watery or with an unusual texture or odor, it’s more likely to be one of the symptoms of cervical cancer.
This is because changes in the cellular activity in the walls of your cervix can cause unusual secretions.
6. Pain during sex
There are many different factors that can cause pain during sexual intercourse. However, the growth of tumors in the cervix is a possibility that can’t be ruled out.
This can result from inflammation of the walls of the cervix. In turn, this affects your natural lubrication.
7. Lower back strain
Also, because you may have difficulty with your circulation, your muscles and tissues won’t receive adequate amounts of oxygen and other nutrients.
This causes the muscles to compress, resulting in a constant sensation of pain. In addition, the pain is almost always located in the lower back and extremities.
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8. Anemia
As the disease progresses, your body stops using nutrients the way that it should and you’ll experience a loss of appetite.
First of all, this increases your sensation of fatigue during the day. In addition, it can also lead to severe bouts of anemia that affect your cognitive health, among other things.
This symptom is also common when cancer causes irregular bleeding or very heavy menstrual periods.
As a woman, it’s important that you pay attention to these symptoms. Request a pap smear if you have any suspicions.
Regular medical check-ups are critical to the successful treatment of this disease, especially if you have a family history or symptoms of cervical cancer.