If you have: Intense itchiness
It could mean: Hodgkin's or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Severe, persistent itchiness—triggered by an overabundance of abnormal cells circulating in the bloodstream—can be a very early sign of these two types of cancer. "It's not a normal itch. It feels like something is underneath your skin," Fusco says—and neither over-the-counter anti-itch creams nor antihistamines offer relief. If you notice other symptoms, like painless swelling of the lymph nodes, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and shortness of breath, see your doctor. When caught early, these cancers can have a good prognosis.

If you have: Discoloration or swelling of your lower legs
It could mean: Venous insufficiency

Once blood flows down to your legs, your veins have to pump it back up to your body's core. Veins that are not working properly struggle to transport blood against gravity, so the blood collects in the lower legs, causing redness and swelling. A variety of conditions may be the cause. Make an appointment with an internist to begin pinpointing the problem.


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