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Two nighttime symptoms intense night sweats and persistent insomnia could be early warning signs of cancer, according to health experts. While these issues may often be brushed off as effects of stress, temperature, or lifestyle, experiencing them without a clear explanation could warrant medical attention.
As reported by SurreyLive, these symptoms may appear subtly and are easy to overlook. However, Cancer Research UK emphasizes the importance of paying close attention to what’s “normal” for your body and seeking help if changes persist.
“It’s important to be aware of what is normal for you and speak to your doctor if you notice any unusual changes or something that won’t go away,” the charity advises. “This can help to diagnose cancer at an early stage, when treatment is more likely to be successful.”
Night Sweats: When to Worry
Night sweats can happen for various reasons, including a warm room, bedding, or hormonal changes. But Cancer Research UK warns that “very heavy, drenching night sweats” could be a sign of something more serious, such as lymphoma.
The NHS also cautions that excessive sweating during sleep should not be ignored. “If you regularly wake up with soaking wet sheets, you should get it checked by a GP,” the NHS states. “Night sweats are when you sweat so much that your night clothes and bedding are soaking wet, even though where you’re sleeping is cool.”
Cancers commonly linked to night sweats include:
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
- Hodgkin lymphoma
- Leukaemia
- Carcinoid tumours
- Mesothelioma
- Bone cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Germ cell tumours
- Advanced medullary thyroid cancer
Insomnia: A Silent Signal
About one in three people will experience insomnia during their lifetime, often due to stress or health concerns. However, Cancer Research UK notes that ongoing sleep disturbances can also result from cancer-related pain, side effects of treatment, or psychological distress linked to diagnosis.
“If you often have insomnia, it can interfere with everyday life. You may feel very tired and have low energy,” says the charity. “You might also have poor concentration, and irritability, and may feel you cannot cope.”
Other Possible Warning Signs
In addition to night sweats and insomnia, other potential indicators of cancer include:
- Unexplained fatigue
- Persistent pain or aches
- Sudden weight loss
- Unusual lumps or swelling
- Unexplained bleeding or bruising
While these symptoms can result from many benign causes, persistent or unexplained issues should always be discussed with a healthcare provider. Early detection is often critical in the successful treatment of cancer.
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