Last Updated: 11 December 2018
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. This gradually 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.
The pain can sometimes be wrongly
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) easily after a minor injury or fall. Less common symptoms can include:
- a
high temperature (fever) of 38C (100.4F) or above
- unexplained weight loss
- sweating,
particularly at night.
When to
seek medical advice
See your doctor/ GP if you or your child experiences
persistent, severe or worsening bone pain, or if you are worried about any of
the symptoms mentioned above. While it is highly unlikely that your symptoms are
caused by cancer, it is best to be sure by getting a proper diagnosis.
Source: NHS Choices