There are more than 200 different types of cancer that can develop in the human body. In many cases, symptoms depend on where the cancer forms. However, some warning signs are more general and can be easily overlooked — especially because they may become more noticeable at night.

According to experts from Cancer Research UK, severe night sweats and persistent insomnia can sometimes be warning signs of cancer. Although these symptoms are often caused by non-cancerous conditions, anyone experiencing them without a clear reason should seek medical advice.

Cancer Research UK emphasizes the importance of knowing what is normal for your body and speaking to a doctor if you notice unusual changes or symptoms that do not go away. Early detection can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment.

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1. Severe Night Sweats

Sweating at night is often attributed to warm room temperatures, weather conditions, or sharing a bed with another person. However, excessive night sweats that leave clothing and bed sheets soaked, especially when the room is cool, should not be ignored.

Cancer Research UK recommends seeing a doctor if you experience intense night sweats or unexplained fever, as these may be symptoms of serious conditions such as lymphoma.

The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) also advises medical evaluation if night sweats are severe and frequent. Night sweats are defined as sweating so heavily during sleep that nightwear and bedding become drenched.

Types of cancer commonly associated with night sweats include:

• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma

• Hodgkin lymphoma

• Carcinoid tumors

• Leukemia

• Mesothelioma

• Bone cancer

• Prostate cancer

• Kidney cancer

• Germ cell tumors

• Advanced medullary thyroid cancer

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2. Persistent Insomnia

Insomnia is a common issue, with around one in three people experiencing sleep problems at some point in their lives. Causes may include stress, anxiety, medical conditions, or physical injury.

However, long-lasting insomnia without an obvious cause can sometimes be linked to cancer. According to Cancer Research UK, sleep problems in cancer patients may result from pain, illness-related discomfort, side effects of treatment, or psychological factors such as anxiety, depression, and emotional distress.

Persistent insomnia can significantly affect daily life, leading to extreme fatigue, low energy, poor concentration, irritability, and a feeling of being unable to cope.

If sleep disturbances continue and interfere with normal functioning, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.

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Other General Cancer Warning Signs

In addition to night sweats and insomnia, other symptoms that may indicate cancer include:

• Ongoing fatigue

• Unexplained bleeding or bruising

• Persistent pain or aches

• Sudden, unexplained weight loss

• New or unusual lumps or swelling

If any of these symptoms appear without a clear cause or do not improve over time, medical evaluation is strongly recommended.

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While these signs do not necessarily mean cancer, paying attention to persistent or unexplained changes in your body is crucial. Early medical consultation can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.