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4 Surprising Symptoms That Could Signal Cancer
12 Nov
Summary
- Pain in lymph node after drinking alcohol may indicate Hodgkin lymphoma
- Broken bones with little trauma can signal cancer spread to bones
- High calcium levels linked to increased cancer risk, especially lung and breast
- Painful, swollen breasts or nipple discharge may be a sign of inflammatory breast cancer
As of November 12, 2025, an oncologist has revealed 4 surprising symptoms that could signal the presence of cancer. While the most common cancer symptoms are well-known, such as breast lumps or changes in bowel habits, there are also lesser-known signs that may indicate a serious underlying condition.
One such symptom is pain in a lymph node after drinking alcohol, which may be a sign of Hodgkin lymphoma. This phenomenon was found in at least 5% of people diagnosed with this type of cancer. Another potential red flag is a broken bone with very little trauma, which can indicate cancer that has spread to the bones. Approximately 8% of people with cancer in the bones sustain a pathologic fracture.
Additionally, sky-high calcium levels have been linked to an increased risk of cancer diagnosis within the following year, particularly for certain types like lung, breast, and kidney cancer. Lastly, painful, swollen breasts or nipple discharge, if not caused by a benign condition like mastitis, could be a sign of inflammatory breast cancer.
The oncologist emphasizes that these are rare and unusual symptoms, and not every new ache or pain is a cause for concern. However, if experiencing any of these signs, it's crucial to seek medical evaluation to rule out any serious underlying conditions.
