Signs and symptoms

Signs and symptoms

Signs and symptoms of cancer

It is important to know the common signs and symptoms of cancer so that it can be detected early. Symptoms are often caused by other non-cancerous illnesses but it is still best to have them checked. Different types of cancer have different symptoms.

General advice would be to see your GP if:

  • You notice any symptoms that are not normal for you as nobody knows your body like you do.
  • If any symptoms persists for longer than three weeks, e.g. a cough that doesn’t go away.
  • If you have an unexplained symptom, e.g. a lump without any known injury or unexplained bleeding.

For more information visit the NHS website or Macmillan website.

You can also view Macmillan's information on the signs and symptoms of cancer.

Signs and symptoms of cancer [pdf] 124KB