How do people know they have cancer?
The first sign of cancer is a symptom — a signal that something is wrong. There are many different signs that a person may have cancer, just as there are many different forms of the disease. A few of the more common symptoms of cancer include: • extreme exhaustion • swelling or lumps in certain parts of the body, such as the abdomen or neck • headaches • blurred vision • nausea • problems with walking or balance • more infections • unusual bleeding Only you know how your body works and what you feel like when you’re healthy. If you haven’t been feeling well, it’s best to tell an adult who can make sure you see a doctor who will evaluate your symptoms. Cancer, like most illnesses, is easier to treat when it’s found early, so when in doubt, check it out. If a doctor suspects that a person has cancer, he or she will order various tests. These might include blood tests, in which doctors examine blood cells under a microscope to look for problems, X-rays, or an MRI, a test that can be used
