In a 2016 interview with People, Black Eyed Peas' Jaime Luis Gomez, also known as Taboo, revealed that he was diagnosed with stage II testicular cancer in June 2014. During the interaction, he shared that he actually thought his symptoms were brought on by the flu. However, the rapper underwent a series of tests to confirm his condition.
While cancer and flu are completely different illnesses, their symptoms can overlap, which can delay early detection and timely treatment. In this article, we will not only discuss the cancer symptoms that can be mistaken for the flu but will also look at ways to differentiate between the two.
Cancer Symptoms May Overlap Flu-Like Symptoms
According to Dr Sumanth Kumar Mallupattu,Consultant-Medical Oncology, CARE Hospitals, HITEC City, Hyderabad, certain cancer symptoms can overlap with flu-like symptoms, which is why it is important to be aware of the similarities.
However, the doctor shared that having flu-like symptoms does not necessarily indicate cancer. Persistent or concerning symptoms should be followed up on or consulted with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation. Listed below are some of the common cancer signs that could be confused with the flu:
Also Read: 9 Warning Signs Of Cancer In Women That You Should Not Ignore
Fatigue
Fatigue is a common sign of both cancer and the flu. Both illnesses can leave patients feeling tired and weak. In fact, in a study published in Scientific Reports, approximately 40% of cancer patients experienced moderate to severe fatigue. While fatigue caused by the flu can last for 2 weeks or more, persistent, unexplained fatigue that doesn't improve with rest should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, advised Dr Mallupattu.
Fever and chills
Dr Mallupattu said, “While flu is characterised by a sudden onset of fever, some cancers, particularly blood cancers like leukaemia and lymphoma, can also cause fever and chills.
Body aches
Muscular and joint pain are common symptoms of both the flu and certain types of cancer.
Persistent cough
In certain types of cancer, such as lung cancer, patients experience symptoms like persistent cough, which is also common in flu and other viral infections like COVID and common cold.
Shortness of breath
Severe flu can lead to respiratory issues, including breathing difficulties and shortness of breath. The same symptoms can be experienced by people who have cancer in or near their lungs. According to Cancer Research UK, certain cancers also spread to the lungs from other parts of the body, which might narrow down the tubes carrying air into your lungs, leading to breathing problems.
Also Read: Flu Symptoms: When To Visit A Doctor
How To Differentiate Between Cancer And The Flu
Some of the ways to differentiate between cancer and flu-like symptoms include:
Duration: Flu symptoms typically resolve within a week or two. If symptoms persist or worsen over an extended period, it may require further investigation.
Response to treatment: Flu symptoms often respond to antiviral medications or supportive care. If symptoms persist despite treatment or if there's no improvement, it may be a reason for concern.
Additional symptoms: Certain cancer-related symptoms, such as lumps, changes in bowel habits, persistent pain, or neurological symptoms, are not typical of the flu and should be evaluated promptly.
Risk factors: Consider personal and family medical history, as well as other risk factors for cancer, when assessing symptoms.
Conclusion
Flu-like symptoms hardly cause any alarm, as they usually subside in a few days or 1-2 weeks. However, if the symptoms are persistent and do not go away even after taking ample rest and appropriate medications, you must get evaluated by a doctor. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and if you have any indication of it, it is crucial that you get screened for it.