So far in 2009, bone cancer has claimed 1,470 lives and there were 2,570 new cases in the United States. There are several different types of bone cancer, and each has different symptoms, the most common of which is pain. As the cancer progresses, the symptoms become worse. If you experience any of these, see your doctor. Having cancer does not mean you're going to die.
Raise awareness for bone cancer.
Osteosarcoma
The most common primary malignant bone cancer is osteosarcoma. The primary symptom is pain, which is usually worse at night. If the tumor is large, it may appear as if the area is swelled. When the bones are affected, they are not be as strong as normal and can fracture easily.
Ewing's Sarcoma
The most aggressive of the bone tumors is Ewing's sarcoma. The symptoms depend on where and how big the tumor is. You may feel pain or tenderness in the affected area along with some swelling; the pain is more intense when the tumor is near important nerves. The tumor can weaken the bones so much that they fracture easily or interfere with movement. Some people may experience tiredness, fever, weight loss, decreased appetite and anemia. Other symptoms include numbness or tingling in parts of the body. There may be redness or swelling around the tumor. Paralysis or incontinence may result if the tumor is near the spine.
Chondrosarcoma
The second most common type of bone cancer is chondrosarcoma. One symptom may be a large lump on the bone, with pressure surrounding the mass. Many people suffer from severe pain. Other symptoms are headaches and vision and hearing problems.
Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma
Malignant fibrous histiocytoma has symptoms that depend on the location and size of the tumor. Sometimes, a bone fracture is the first symptom. Other symptoms may include fever, weight loss and low blood sugar. The swelled soft tissues are usually painless, but some people begin to limp and have difficulty using a part of their limbs. There may be pain if the tumor is pressing on nerves and muscles
Fibrosarcoma
Fibrosarcoma is a rare bone cancer, whose symptoms include bone swelling and pain or tenderness in the knee, arm or thigh area. Some people begin to limp or experience soft tissue swelling around the bones.
Chordoma
Chordoma is another rare bone cancer. Common symptoms when the tumor is at the base of the skull are headaches, double vision and pain in the neck and face. Some may have trouble in swallowing or changes in hearing. If the chordoma tumor goes undetected until a mass forms and is on the spine or sacrum, there are other symptoms, including changes in bowel or bladder functions, incontinence, impotence, numbness and weakness in the arms and legs.
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