5 Warning Signs That May Indicate Cancer Is Developing

2. Constant, Unrelenting Fatigue

Cancer-related fatigue is different from normal tiredness. It does not improve with rest and can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities.

This symptom is common in:

  • Leukemias and lymphomas

  • Stomach and colon cancers that cause internal bleeding and anemia

When fatigue is persistent, progressive, and unexplained, it deserves attention.

3. Changes in he Skin

Any noticeable change in the skin should be monitored carefully. Warning signs include:

  • Moles that change color, size, or shape, which may indicate melanoma

  • Wounds or sores that don’t heal, possibly signaling skin cancer

  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), linked to liver or pancreatic cancer

  • Dark patches, persistent itching, or unusual discoloration, which can reflect internal cancers

The skin often acts as a visible mirror of what’s happening inside the body.

4. Persistent Pain

Pain that doesn’t go away with rest or common medication should always be investigated.

Certain cancers are known to cause chronic pain, including:

  • Bone tumors, which often cause deep, worsening pain

  • Ovarian, colorectal, and lung cancers, which may cause abdominal or chest pain

  • Brain tumors, often associated with persistent headaches, nausea, or blurred vision

Ongoing pain is not something to “get used to” — it’s a signal worth checking.