Cancer metastases symptoms can vary depending on the type of cancer and where it is spread. Some patients can feel minor symptoms, while others may experience severe problems. Regardless of the symptoms, it is important to have a good support system in place and discuss them with your doctor. If you have been diagnosed with cancer, it is important to find a support group that you can turn to. The American Cancer Society offers a variety of information and support groups for people with cancer.
There are many types of cancer that are known to spread to the lymph nodes. They can cause swelling of the lymph nodes, which makes it difficult for the fluids in the lymph nodes to circulate. This can interfere with the liver’s function and can cause bleeding.
Another common way cancer can spread is through the bloodstream. In addition to the liver, the digestive system is also a major conduit for cancer cells to travel through the body. During a physical examination, your doctor may be able to feel areas of pain or swelling. These symptoms may indicate that the cancer is spreading to the lymph nodes.
Cancer that has spread to the brain can cause dizziness and seizures. It can also cause headaches. Other symptoms include weakness, numbness, vision problems and balance issues. Depending on the location of the spread, your health care team may recommend chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted surgery.
Lung cancer may be diagnosed by a physical exam or a bronchoscopy. A bronchoscopy allows your doctor to see the lungs and the area of your body where cancer has spread. Your healthcare provider may also use diagnostic imaging techniques to determine if your cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Cancer metastases can also affect the bones. The most common location is the ribs and vertebrae. Pain and fractures can occur, as can the compression of the spinal cord. Because of the vertebrae’s role in balancing, these problems can interfere with your ability to walk, run, and perform daily tasks.
Regardless of the location of the metastasis, the cancer can negatively impact your life. Many patients experience a reduction in quality of life, and they fear death. However, if the disease is caught early, it can be treated and managed. Surgery is not likely to cure all of the cancer, but it can alleviate symptoms. Those with bone metastases often suffer from chronic pain.
Bone metastases can also result in fractures and a loss of strength. If the cancer has spread to the spine, it can result in pressure on the nerves, which can lead to a loss of bowel or bladder control. When a spinal tumor is detected, a patient’s medical team will work to relieve the symptoms and ensure that the patient can continue to live a normal life.
For some patients, metastatic cancer can cause extreme fatigue. Patients will also have unexplained weight loss. Although chemotherapy and surgery are commonly used to treat the disease, they can have harmful side effects.
