Early stage cancer can still be treatable and a biopsy is often necessary to determine the type and extent of the disease. Detection at an early stage is vital to improving the prognosis and survival of patients with the disease. However, even at this advanced stage, it is possible to recognize some signs of stage 4 cancer.
The first sign of stage 4 cancer is a weakened immune system. Unlike other types of cancer, stage 4 symptoms can be easily missed by the sufferer. In addition, the patient may also have trouble breathing and swallowing, resulting in a weaker immune system. The person may have trouble moving or even walking. In the event that the cancer spreads beyond the affected area, the patient may not be able to work.
When a patient is diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, it is important to be aware of the type of cancer that is causing the symptoms. The type of cancer may be regional or local, or it could affect the lymph nodes and other organs. If the cancer spreads from the original site, it is usually classified as stage 4B. If the cancer has spread beyond the initial site, it is considered metastatic. When the cancer spreads beyond the initial site, it is called stage 4.
Jaundice is another symptom of stage 4 cancer. This symptom makes the skin and whites of the eyes yellow. This happens because the liver is unable to remove the bilirubin in the blood. This bilirubin is a type of substance that is released from the red blood cells. It can be a sign of an advancing cancer. If you have this symptom, consult with your healthcare provider immediately.
A patient may exhibit several stages of cancer. Depending on the type of cancer, this stage can be regional or local. A patient with stage 4A cancer may only have a tumor on one part of the body. In contrast, a person with stage 4B cancer has spread to other parts of the body. It is categorized as metastatic when it has spread beyond its original site. Moreover, a person with stage 4B cancer does not have any hope of remission. Once it has reached this level, the disease is permanent.
Jaundice is a common stage 4 cancer symptom. The skin and the whites of the eyes become yellow due to the inability of the liver to remove bilirubin. The bilirubin is formed when red blood cells are broken down. This substance is released by the cancer when it reaches the fourth stage. The condition is characterized by a decreased sense of energy and extreme fatigue. Some patients may even need help with everyday activities.
The cancer has spread to other parts of the body. This means that the cancer has spread beyond the original diagnosis. It has spread to the lymphatic system and is now in the blood stream. The patient has a poor prognosis. Nonetheless, treatment will improve the quality of life and control the cancer. A doctor can prescribe chemotherapy or other treatments if the symptoms persist. This is the only way to ensure that the cancer is not too advanced.
