Symptoms of bone cancer

Bone pain is the most common symptom of bone cancer. Some people experience other symptoms as well.

Bone pain

Pain caused by bone cancer usually begins with a feeling of tenderness in the affected bone. Thisgradually progresses to a persistent ache or ache that comes and goes, which continues at night and when resting.

Any bone can be affected, although bone cancer most often develops in the long bones of the legs or upper arms.

Thepain can sometimes bewrongly mistaken for Arthritis in adults and growing pains in children and teenagers.

Other symptoms

Some people also experience swelling and redness (inflammation) or notice a lump on or around the affected bone. If the bone is near a joint, the swelling may make it difficult to use the joint.

In some cases, the cancer can weaken a bone, causing it to break (fracture) easilyafter a minor injury or fall.

Less common symptoms can include:

  • a high temperature (fever) of 38C (100.4F) or above
  • unexplained weight loss
  • sweating, particularlyat night

When to seek medical advice

See your GP if you or your child experiences persistent, severe or worsening bone pain, or if you're worried about any of the symptoms mentioned above.

While it's highly unlikely that your symptoms are caused by cancer, it's best to be sure by getting a proper diagnosis.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 4 Jan 2017