Most cancers is a debilitating illness that manifests slowly till it rears its ugly head by the point it’s too late for the affected person. Nevertheless, it does current some warning indicators which regularly get mistaken for different medical situations. Equally, some early signs of most cancers could be mistaken for flu. To know extra about this, the workforce of OnlyMyHealth spoke to Dr L Rohit Reddy, Guide Medical Oncologist & Hemato Oncologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad.
Can Most cancers Mimic The Flu?
“In India, we see many sufferers who current with signs of flu akin to fever, malaise, and physique aches. However keep in mind that not each flu symptom is infection-related. Typically they are often as a result of a harmful underlying most cancers,” expressed Dr Reddy.
To clarify the fact of this phenomenon, he gave the instance of Mr Rao (title modified), who obtained recognized with the flu after weeks of affected by fatigue and shortness of breath in December of 2023. However when the prescribed therapy didn’t relieve his signs, a second opinion revealed stage 4 lymphoma.
Dr Reddy listed some widespread signs of the flu which can be additionally widespread signs of some cancers, particularly hematologic malignancies, akin to lymphoma and leukaemia:
- Fatigue
- Chills
- Fever
- Weight reduction
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Persistent cough
“A variety of flu signs rely upon the kind of most cancers and the way superior it’s. Again or stomach ache is current in folks affected by ovarian, uterine, abdomen, colon, and bladder cancers. Fatigue can also be a giant symptom, which could be mistaken for flu and is seen in superior kidney most cancers,” mentioned Dr Reddy.
Nevertheless, he elucidated that although a number of instances have made headlines, it’s uncommon for most cancers to be inaccurately recognized because the flu. “These inaccurate diagnoses shouldn’t trigger panic in each affected person with such signs as a result of as already talked about these are uncommon situations. Sufferers who’ve been recognized with the flu or have flu-like signs shouldn’t be alarmed or instantly assume they’ve one thing aside from the flu. But when signs worsen or don’t get higher after two weeks, they need to see a health care provider,” added Dr Reddy.
Additionally Learn: Abdomen Most cancers Consciousness Month: Skilled Suggests Meals That Might Enhance The Danger Of Abdomen Most cancers
Most cancers Might Enhance Flu Danger
It’s additionally vital to know that sufferers who’re present process most cancers therapy could also be at the next threat of catching the flu. “As flu season approaches, listed here are some suggestions for most cancers sufferers and their caregivers which will assist cut back the danger of getting sick,” mentioned Dr Reddy as he listed:
- Get the annual influenza vaccine after affirmation together with your oncologist or treating doctor.
- Get different scheduled vaccines as per the schedule prescribed.
- Hold your environment clear.
- Be certain that your loved ones members and caregivers are also vaccinated.
- Keep away from crowds or put on a masks for those who should be in a big group.
- Wash fingers regularly.
Dr Reddy concluded that for those who assume you could have been uncovered to the flu, discuss to your physician as quickly as potential. He shared that for those who discover that you just’re having flu-like signs that don’t get higher, discuss to your physician, particularly if ache is concerned. Whereas there’s a small probability it might be most cancers, it may be an indication of one in all a bunch of different points that may be simply mounted. Both approach, it’s a good suggestion to get it checked out.
