cancer

If one report says “high grade” while your oncologist describes an “early stage”, the two statements may be compatible. Stage describes where cancer is and its extent; grade describes features of the cancer cells. They answer different questions and cannot be converted into one another. National Cancer Institute: Cancer Staging; National Cancer Institute: Tumor Grade …

Cancer stage and grade: why the words mean different things Read More »

A PET-CT request can sound worrying, especially when you have already had several scans. Before booking, ask what decision this scan is meant to help with. Understanding its purpose and getting the centre’s own preparation instructions can prevent avoidable travel, repeat testing and confusion. What PET and CT show together PET uses a radioactive tracer …

Why has my doctor requested a PET-CT scan? Read More »

When more than one relative has cancer, families often ask whether everyone should have a genetic test. The useful first step is a cancer genetics assessment, not ordering the largest test panel. Counselling can clarify whether testing could help, who should be tested first and what each possible result would mean. Genetic does not always …

Inherited cancer risk: when to ask about genetic counselling Read More »

Your first chemotherapy appointment is easier to navigate when you know where to go, what must happen before treatment and who to call afterwards. This guide focuses on a first hospital or day-care visit. The details depend on the medicines and route prescribed; oral treatment and take-home pumps need their own instructions. If you feel …

First chemotherapy visit: what to ask and pack Read More »

A mouth ulcer that keeps returning to your attention can be easy to explain away as a sharp tooth, spicy food or stress. Those may be relevant, but a lasting change needs an examination. Most ordinary mouth ulcers settle within one or two weeks. An ulcer still present after three weeks should be checked by …

Mouth ulcer or oral patch that does not heal: getting assessed Read More »

Unexpected vaginal bleeding can feel difficult to discuss, especially if it happens after sex. It deserves a medical conversation, not embarrassment. Bleeding after sex has several possible causes and is often not serious, but should be checked. Bleeding after menopause needs assessment even when it is only a small amount and happens once. NHS: bleeding …

Bleeding after sex or menopause: when to seek assessment Read More »

A cough does not automatically point to lung cancer. Respiratory infections, reflux, allergies and irritation can also cause it. Note how long it has lasted and whether it is improving. Cough syrup should not replace an assessment when symptoms persist. NHS: cough For adults in India, tuberculosis is an important reason not to delay. Government …

A persistent cough: when a doctor should assess it Read More »

Seeing blood after a bowel movement can make people fear cancer or assume that an old problem with piles has returned. Neither conclusion can be made from appearance alone. Bleeding has several possible causes, including haemorrhoids, a small tear, inflammation, polyps and cancer. The next step is to describe it to a doctor and decide …

Blood in stool: preparing for a medical assessment Read More »

Losing weight when you have not been trying can be unsettling, especially when an online search immediately mentions cancer. There are many possible explanations, including thyroid or digestive problems, reduced food intake, stress, medicines and cancer. Arrange a medical assessment if the loss continues without an intended change in diet or activity. NHS: Unintentional weight …

Unexplained weight loss: what to tell your doctor Read More »

A lump in the neck, armpit or groin can raise immediate fears about cancer. Lymph nodes are part of the immune system, and infections are a common reason for enlargement. A swelling that persists or grows still deserves an examination. An online description cannot tell whether the lump is a lymph node or what is …

A persistent swollen lymph node: what happens next Read More »