Feeling persistently tired, even when you’re getting enough sleep? Experts at Cancer Research UK are urging people to schedule a visit with their GP if this is an ongoing issue. While many experience fatigue during busy summer months, persistent tiredness could be a symptom of something more serious, including bone cancer.
On their website, the cancer experts emphasize that feeling tired is a prominent symptom of bone cancer. This fatigue can persist even with adequate sleep, indicating a potential underlying health concern.
While primary bone cancer is relatively rare, it’s crucial to have any persistent symptoms checked by a doctor. Early detection is essential for successful treatment.
So what are the symptoms of bone cancer?
The symptoms can vary depending on the size of the cancer and its location within the body. Some common signs include:
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Pain:
You might experience pain or tenderness most of the time, even while resting. The pain might be worse at night. You could also experience referred pain, where the pain is felt in a different area from the tumor itself.*
Swelling:
Swelling may be present, but it’s not always visible or easily felt.*
Problems moving around:
You might find it more difficult to move around or experience a limp.Less common symptoms include:
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A break in the bone:
A weakened bone can lead to a fracture, known as a pathological fracture, though this is rare.*
A high temperature (fever):
You might experience fever, chills, and sweats.*
Weight loss:
You could lose weight even without changes in your diet.It’s important to remember that other medical conditions can cause similar symptoms. However, early diagnosis is key for successful treatment, making it vital to consult your GP if you experience any of these symptoms.
Secondary or metastatic bone cancer occurs when cancer spreads to the bones from other parts of the body. This can present with different symptoms, including:
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Pain:
Continuous, gnawing back pain, often worse despite rest.*
Bone breaks:
Bones may become weaker and more prone to fracture.*
Hypercalcaemia:
High calcium levels in the blood can lead to dehydration, confusion, nausea, abdominal pain, and constipation.*
Low blood cell levels:
This can lead to an increased risk of infection, breathlessness, paleness, bruising, and bleeding.*
Spinal cord compression:
Pressure on the spinal cord can cause pain, weakness in the legs, numbness, paralysis, and loss of bladder and bowel control.If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. Your health is your priority, and early detection is crucial for a positive outcome.
