Early warning signs of different types of eye cancer

Early warning signs of different types of eye cancer

Cancer that begins in the eyeball, or nearby parts, such as eyelids or tear ducts, is known as eye cancer. All forms of eye cancer are extremely rare. Of these, some common types of eye cancer include uveal melanomas and retinoblastoma. Most people do not have symptoms of eye cancer unless it grows in certain parts of the eye or becomes more advanced. As the condition develops, one may experience the following symptoms:

Symptoms of choroidal melanoma
Choroidal melanoma affects the tissue that covers the middle layer of the eye. Symptoms of this condition include:

Detached retina if the tumor grows large enough
A dark growth in the eye that may only be visible as a shadow at the back of the eye
Vision changes, such as blurred vision or lights flashing
Eye floaters, or specks that move around in someone’s field of vision
Pressure in the eye
Pain in the eye or the surrounding areas

Symptoms of conjunctival melanoma
When cancer begins in the outer tissue that covers the eye (conjunctiva), it is called conjunctival melanoma. Some warning signs of this type of eye cancer include:

Elevated, dark growths in the eye that may look like small moles or freckles
Vision changes, such as blurred vision, vision loss, or lights flashing
A spot in the eye that grows or changes

Symptoms of retinoblastoma
This is the most common form of eye cancer that begins in one’s childhood. Some common signs and symptoms include:

A pupil that looks white when light shines into it (instead of red or pink)
White flashes in the eye in photos
Strabismus, or lazy eye
Eye pain
Vision issues
A bulging eye
Differences in color between the two irises

Symptoms of conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma
The growths of squamous cell carcinoma are light, making it difficult to notice. Some warning signs include:

Sensitivity to light
A red eye
Eye irritation
The sensation that something is in the eye
Painless light or white-colored growth on the eye that continues to grow

As with most other cancers, eye cancer develops when cells begin to divide and multiply out of control, leading to the formation of a tumor. This tumor can break off and travel through the bloodstream to affect other parts of the body, also known as metastasis of cancer. Several factors can increase one’s risk of developing cancer, such as age, eye color, unusual moles, use of sunbeds, and overexposure to sunlight.

If the general physician suspects that there is a serious underlying condition with one’s eyes, a visit to a specialist for eye cancer is recommended. Here, doctors may recommend tests and screenings such as an eye examination to look for any abnormalities, an ultrasound scan of the eye, a fluorescein angiogram, and/or a biopsy.

Based on the type and stage of cancer, doctors may recommend treatment options such as brachytherapy, external radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery, or enucleation (removal of the eye).

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Coping with urges that can trigger a relapse post treatment

Addictions when left untreated can turn into crippling conditions. One can be addicted to smoking, binge drinking, or even shopping. Once addicted, one willfully submits to urges, despite having satisfied them before. However, addictions can be managed and to a great extent treated to full recovery. But, the post-recovery phase is crucial where both the mind and body are put to test and can trigger a relapse. Continue reading to know more about the most common triggers for addictions and how to deal with them.Stress Stress is commonly the root cause of many problems and addictions, both physical and psychological. One can become an addict as a way to manage the stress that may stem from strained relationships or priorities. The best way to avoid a relapse during recovery is to make lifestyle changes that don’t trigger a return to addictions amidst a stressful situation. One can practice mindfulness, engage in relaxation techniques, manage one’s time to avoid stressful situations, and imbibe healthy eating habits and exercise in their daily routine. EmotionsThere is an umpteen number of triggers that invoke a positive or negative emotional response. However, the stress associated with dealing with emotions daily can trigger urges without one even realizing. Often, one turns to a glass of alcohol or relies on prescription medications to put the mind at ease. It is not a permanent solution and prolonged use of these substances can cause more harm in the long run. One must learn and explore productive ways of controlling emotions better to avoid a relapse during recovery. For example, writing and maintaining a journal that contains one’s feelings and thoughts can act as a healthy outlet. Similarly, there are other healthy ways to channel one’s energy and manage emotional responses.Positive conditioningPeople who have addictions such as smoking or drinking may often find themselves in situations where a lit cigarette or a glass of wine can trigger a relapse. This is understandable considering these substances were the primary source of comfort and relaxation. However, with positive reinforcement and reconditioning one can train the mind and curb such urges. Relaxation doesn’t always mean techniques like yoga or meditation, it can also be pursuing your hobby. Counseling for group gatheringsBirthdays, parties, New Year’s events, and any celebration in general call for alcohol consumption and smoking. At times, these could be the very addictions one is recovering from, and in a social gathering, such temptations can be strong. However, a recovering addict should refrain from indulging in any of these as even a taste can turn into a relapse. For instance, a recovering alcoholic must avoid having a single drink as that could put him/her on a slippery slope to relapse. Here, one-on-one counseling can help prepare the mind to resist the urge. It is never healthy for a recovering addict to simply avoid socializing fearing a relapse.

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6 early warning signs of bladder cancer

Bladder cancer is a common mutation that begins in the urothelial cells that line the inside of the bladder. The cancerous cells are also found in the kidneys and the ureters. The condition is usually diagnosed at an early stage and is also treatable. However, bladder cancer may replase after it is eliminated or in remission. In either case, one should be mindful of its signs so that one can get on a treatment plan immediately. Pain in the lower back One may experience pain in the lower back or abdomen for multiple reasons, including an injury. But if the pain occurs with other symptoms, such as those associated with urination, they might need to speak to an expert to determine its cause, which could be bladder cancer. Those who develop this sign may experience pain, usually on only one side of the body. Unusual bladder changes The presence of cancerous cells in the bladder may result in multiple unusual bladder symptoms. One may start urinating more often than usual, wake up many times at night to urinate, or experience pain or a burning sensation during urination. The individual may also have trouble urinating or have a weak urine stream. Other symptoms include the urge to empty the bladder immediately, even if it isn't full. Blood in the urine One of the early warning signs of bladder cancer is blood in the urine. There might be ample blood to make the waste liquid look pink, orange, or dark red. Sometimes, the color of urine might be normal, but a test may still find traces of blood during a diagnosis. The symptom isn't always associated with cancer, but one should see an expert if one notices the symptom. Persistent bladder infections Another common symptom that one may have is a bladder infection. While these infections could occur due to other health complications, the sign might be persistent if it is caused by cancer. Therefore, it may heal even after treatment with the usual antibiotics. In such cases, one should speak to an expert about potential signs of bladder cancer. A sudden drop in BMI An individual may experience a drop in pounds when they indulge in strenuous exercises or are affected by an infection. It may also be a side effect of ongoing treatments for health conditions. However, if one experiences a loss of more than three pounds in a week, and out of the ordinary, one should speak to an expert immediately. The sign could be an indication of the onset of bladder cancer. Pain in the bones The painful sensation from cancer developing in the bones may range from mild to severe. If one notices this unusual development, one must speak to a healthcare professional.

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