What symptoms might indicate a need for further evaluation in a cancer patient?

Unexplained weight loss and persistent pain are significant symptoms in cancer patients that warrant further evaluation. Unexplained weight loss can indicate that the body is using energy stores due to a disease process such as cancer, or it may signal that the cancer is progressing. Similarly, persistent pain may be a sign that cancer is affecting nearby tissues or organs, or it could indicate metastasis, where cancer spreads from its original site.

Addressing these symptoms promptly is crucial, as they can greatly impact a patient's quality of life and may reflect changes in the disease status that require adjustments to treatment strategies. The presence of these symptoms serves as red flags that a healthcare provider should investigate further to determine the underlying cause and to provide appropriate care and support for the patient.