Cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled mutation of cells that can develop in any body part. Bone cancer or osteosarcoma is one such cancer type triggered when unhealthy cells invade the bone marrow or develop over the surface of any bone. While most bones are vulnerable to this cancer, it commonly affects the pelvic or long bones that make up the arms and legs. Here are five common early signs of bone cancer explained.

Pain and swelling
Bone cancer will cause pain to develop gradually over time and spread around the affected area. This pain is different from the type that is caused due to injury. Along with pain, spreading cancer will trigger inflammation and cause swelling to affect the bone minerals. If pain and swelling develop around the joints, it will be evident from the discomfort caused during simple movement. Pain is worse during the day but can persist overnight.

Tenderness over the bones
If a bone is painfully tender to touch and triggers sharp shooting discomfort upon contact, it could indicate the spread of underlying cancer. This happens mainly due to the increased sensitivity of nerves that come in contact with the swelling and inflammation on the surface or inside the bone marrow. Some people will also develop lumps around the tender area, indicating excess tumor growth that destroys healthy cells in the vicinity.

Fractures that cause limping
Cancer affects the bone’s calcium properties and can trigger weakness in the connecting structures. This causes the bones to become brittle and vulnerable to the slightest impact, which can cause hairline fractures. Cancer-related fractures are commonly referred to as pathological fractures as these injuries directly result from invading tumors weakening the collective bones. If the tumor is located in a vital joint that controls hand and leg movements, its spread will cause serious mobility problems. As the cancer progresses, even some of the most basic tasks like getting up, sitting down, walking, or bending the joints will cause unbearable pain.

Digestive issues
Bone cancer is not a direct trigger of digestive disorders. However, the spreading of cancer-causing cells can alter the composition of calcium levels in the bone, leading to a mineral imbalance. The unexpected changes can lead to problems like incontinence or constipation. Some types of progressive cancer can also trigger stomach bloating due to a buildup of fluids in the digestive organs. However, bloating is an overlapping symptom; further diagnosis is necessary to identify if cancer is one of the triggers.

Other associated discomforts
Bone cancer will also result in unexpected changes in a person’s BMI as a result of tissue, muscle, and bone density loss. Spreading cancer will also affect a person’s immunity as the body fights to counter the invasion of cancer. This will trigger fatigue and weakness that disrupts one’s regular routine. If the cancer metastasizes to other organs in the affected area, it will affect functions that control certain metabolic and automatic responses. This will depend on the affected organ triggered by end-stage cancer.

If, at any stage, the pain persists or mobility is affected to the extent that it affects one’s daily routine, consult with a specialist immediately. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment planning are only possible after the symptoms confirm the stage and progression of bone cancer.