Your body often gives you clues when something’s wrong—sometimes before tests detect it. Many types of cancer show up through small, indirect symptoms. Catching them early can make all the difference.

Subtle Clues to Watch

Shortness of breath or wheezing can be an early sign of lung cancer.

Frequent fevers or infections may point to leukemia.

Difficulty swallowing might signal throat or lung cancer.

Fatigue and weakness are common across many cancers, especially when paired with other symptoms.

Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly could be a red flag for ovarian or pancreatic cancer.

Visible Body Changes

Blood in stool can indicate colorectal cancer.

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, groin, or underarms might point to lymphoma.

Sores that don’t heal or become crusty may suggest skin cancer.

Unusual changes in the breast, like redness or swelling, can be signs of inflammatory breast cancer.

Changes in your nails, such as black spots or clubbing, could also signal something serious.