Cancer is a word no one ever wants to hear from their doctor. Fortunately, with scientific and medical advances, patients diagnosed with cancer are living longer than before. If caught early, many forms of cancer can be treated effectively, and even completely cured. In order to get the best possible outcome, it is important to be aware of the early signs of cancer.

The following are the most common cancer symptoms to watch out for:

1. Fever or night sweats

Night sweats are usually not serious if you simply have the flu or are going through menopause. However, unexplained night sweats and fever are a red flag that there may be something more serious going on. Fever is a sign that the body’s immune system is attempting to fight off an illness, and this can be an indication of a variety of cancers.

2. Unusual bleeding or bruising

While bruises are typically nothing to be worried about, there are situations in which they can be cause for concern. Bruises which appear out of nowhere should raise the alarm that something is amiss. Unusual bleeding from places like the gums and nose or a heavy period can also be signs that something is wrong. Low platelet levels are associated with certain types of cancer, specifically blood cancer.

3. Unexplained pain

Pain that doesn’t go away and gets progressively worse is one of the most common symptoms of cancer at any stage. Pain in the bones and joints is often associated with bone cancer, testicular cancer, ovarian cancer, colorectal cancer, and pancreatic cancer. This symptom could be felt as a constant dull ache or intense burning, and is difficult to control without proper medical intervention.

4. Unexplained weight loss

One of the first signs of cancer that might appear is weight loss. Losing weight without trying is typically associated with early stages of cancer, especially with pancreatic cancer, esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, and lung cancer. Any significant and unexplained weight loss should be taken seriously, and an appointment should be made with a doctor to find out the cause.

5. Extreme fatigue

While it’s normal to experience fatigue on occasion, especially after strenuous activity, it is not normal to feel fatigue for an extended period of time without reason. If a good night’s sleep doesn’t leave you feeling reenergized, it may be wise to consult with a physician. Getting lab work done can check for underlying illnesses, including cancer.

6. Swelling or lumps in the body

New swelling or lumps anywhere in the body should be checked immediately. Swelling or lumps are some of the most obvious signs of cancerous growth, especially with lymphoma, leukemia, and breast cancer. Swollen lymph nodes are always concerning, and should be taken seriously.

If you notice any of these early warning signs, seek medical advice and treatment immediately. Fortunately, the latest cancer treatments, such as BTK inhibitor Ibrutinib, can be highly effective in those with early onset cancer. The sooner cancer is diagnosed, the better the odds of a successful recovery.