Woman Shares 3 Often Overlooked Symptoms of Cancer That Could Save Your Life
Being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer is a nightmare no one wants for themselves or their loved ones. While regular checkups are crucial, it’s equally important to pay attention to your body and perform self-checks. By staying alert to warning signs, you might catch something early and improve your chances of better outcomes.
One woman, Georgie Swallow, a UK-based content creator, is speaking out to raise awareness about a form of cancer called Hodgkin lymphoma, which attacks the lymphatic system—a key part of the immune system. Diagnosed at 28, Georgie wants to share the signs that led to her diagnosis, some of which she initially brushed off as mere stress.
Before her diagnosis, Georgie noticed symptoms that she thought were nothing more than the result of a hectic lifestyle. “I thought it was just stress or something trivial,” she recalls. “Going to the doctor seemed like a waste of time.” One of the most alarming signs was a lump on the side of her neck—yet she dismissed it.
Now 32, Georgie reflects on how her cancer journey not only impacted her physical health but also took a toll on her mental well-being. She wants to shine a light on three key symptoms she ignored, which could help others catch their condition early:
- Itchy Legs: “I would itch until I broke the skin, which kept me up all night. I went to the doctor, and they thought it was stress, allergies, or urticaria. But no cream or lifestyle change helped,” she says.
- Nocturnal Sweats: “I would wake up drenched in sweat during the night. At the time, I thought it was just normal fatigue or being overworked,” she shares.
- Chronic Fatigue: “I was constantly exhausted, and on top of that, I was losing weight and constantly battling colds and flu. I thought it was just part of being too busy,” Georgie admits.
Georgie now stresses the importance of not dismissing such symptoms, which are often overlooked or attributed to stress. If ignored, they can lead to a delayed cancer diagnosis, making treatment harder.
One of the most difficult aspects of her journey was going into early menopause due to cancer treatment—a challenge she describes as “like being hit by a bus.” “Losing my fertility before I had the chance to have children was heartbreaking,” she confides.
“The menopause at 28 was particularly tough because there was no one my age to talk to about it. None of my friends truly understood, and while they were supportive, it’s hard to relate to something you haven’t experienced yourself.”
Georgie’s story is a powerful reminder that cancer symptoms can manifest in unexpected ways. By speaking up about her experience, she hopes to help others recognize these signs early, potentially saving lives and preventing the emotional impact of a late diagnosis.
Please share this important message with others who might benefit from knowing about these overlooked symptoms. We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.