According to the American Cancer Society, there are approximately 12,900 new cases of cervical cancer in 2015. Sadly, out of 12,900 patients, 4,100 will die due to this disease.
Cervical Cancer is caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) transmitted through sexual intercourse. Certain factors also contribute to this deadly disease such as; pregnancy during a young age, genetics, overweight, smoking, genetics and poor immune system.
Early diagnosis and treatment could help minimize death rate by Cervical Cancer. Here are 10 signs of cervical cancer that you should take note:
- Leg Pain
Leg pain indicates cervical cancer because when cancer cells spread through the body, the blood flow will get obstructed causing leg pain and eventually swelling.
- Unusual Vaginal Bleeding
Irregular bleeding is commonly felt for women with cervical cancer. As capillaries break down, abnormal bleeding takes place.
- Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge which has a foul smell indicates cervical cancer. But this could also be a sign for other infection.
- Pelvic Pain
For patients with cervical cancer, pelvic pain is commonly experienced especially for advanced stages.
- Constant Fatigue
With cervical cancer, patients suffer from anemia mainly because red blood cells are replaced by white blood cells. The reaction normally causes fatigue.
- Discomfort While Urinating
This is the most common symptoms of cervical cancer. Stinging and burning sensation when urinating is caused when the cancer cells has spread throughout nearby tissues.
- Abnormal Menstrual Period
It is caused by irritation of cervix due to cervical cancer.
- Pain During Intercourse
This is experienced during advanced stages of cancer wherein, the disease has already spread out towards tissues and reproductive system.
- Loss of Bladder Control
Loss of bladder control indicates that the cancer is spreading to other parts of the body such as bladder and urinary tract.
- Drastic Weight Loss
Cytokines (small proteins) breaks down fat faster than normal causing drastic weight loss.