Decorating your Christmas tree is a beloved tradition during the festive season. However, if you find yourself struggling with the task more than usual, it might be time to see a doctor. Certain symptoms that arise while decking the halls could actually be red flags for cancer. Dr. Julie Sharp, head of health and patient involvement at Cancer Research UK, advises individuals to contact their GP if they notice any unusual or persistent changes to their health. In this article, we explore six common cancer symptoms that may surface while you're busy preparing for the holidays.
1. Dizziness
Feeling lightheaded occasionally is usually nothing to worry about. However, if you find yourself getting dizzy during your Christmas preparations and the sensation persists for more than a couple of days, it's advisable to speak to your GP. Although unlikely, dizziness and feeling off-balance can be signs of blood cancer or a brain tumor.
2. Breathlessness
Feeling breathless frequently or after light tasks is something to watch out for. It is a primary symptom of lung cancer or cancer that has spread to the lungs from elsewhere in the body. If you suddenly become breathless, your breathing worsens, or you experience pain while breathing, contact your GP. In urgent cases, call 999 or visit your nearest A&E department.
3. Aches and Pains
Experiencing some discomfort while stringing fairy lights or reaching for the tree topper is normal. However, unexplained or persistent aches and pains could be a sign of cancer. The location of the pain may indicate the type of cancer, such as chest pain for lung cancer, or it may suggest that the disease has spread. If you're experiencing unexplained aches and pains, it's important to undergo a health screening.
4. Croaky Voice
Music is an integral part of the holiday season, and many families blast festive tunes while decorating. If you notice that your voice sounds hoarse while singing along to your favorite Christmas songs, it might be worth scheduling an appointment with your doctor. Mild hoarseness can be caused by a cold, allergies, or an infection. However, if it persists for more than three weeks, it could be a sign of laryngeal, throat, or lung cancer.
5. Fatigue
Feeling tired after physical activity or decorating your home is normal. However, if you're experiencing fatigue without a clear reason, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Extreme fatigue is a common symptom of blood cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, as well as breast, bowel, and prostate cancer. According to Cancer Research UK, nearly 65% of people with cancer experience fatigue.
6. Sweating
Winter in the UK can be chilly, so it's important to bundle up when going outside. However, when you enter a warm and cozy building, your body temperature can quickly rise, even without extra layers of clothing. If you experience a lingering hot feeling accompanied by excessive sweating, it's a symptom worth monitoring. Hot flushes, ranging from a slight feeling of warmth in the face, neck, and chest to night sweats that affect the whole body, can sometimes indicate an infection. It is also a symptom of several types of cancer, including leukemia, lymphoma, mesothelioma, and liver and bone cancer.
While these symptoms may be alarming, it's important to remember that they can also be caused by other conditions. However, if you notice any changes to your health that are unusual for you or persist over time, it's crucial to consult your GP. Your doctor is there to address any concerns and provide the necessary guidance and support.
