The cancer cells have already spread, but why does the patient still look energetic and have a good appetite? Here are the reasons.

 Cancer, this dreaded word, seems to go hand in hand with age, from adolescents to the elderly, people of every age group may face its threat. But the unsettling fact is that the incidence of cancer is proportional to age. Once you step over the threshold of 40, the risk of developing cancer for everyone generally increases.

After in-depth research, medical experts point out that the fundamental difference between cancer cells and normal cells lies in their unique ability to spread and infiltrate. These unruly cells are like wild horses breaking free from their reins, quickly spreading to tissues and organs throughout the body and gradually invading major systems of the body.

However, if cancer can be detected and treated in its early stages, the five-year survival rate for patients can be as high as about 80%. Once cancer enters the middle or late stages, this survival rate will drop sharply, possibly to less than 40%.

In life, we sometimes encounter puzzling phenomena. Some cancer patients, despite having been diagnosed with cancer cells that have already spread, still maintain a good mental state and even have a consistent appetite.

This inevitably leads people to ponder what reasons lie behind this. Could it really be that their bodies' resistance is stubbornly fighting against the illness?

01

Why do cancer cells spread?

The characteristics of cancer cells

The characteristics of cancer cells are important factors that determine their ability to spread. Cancer cells have a high degree of invasiveness and proliferative ability, and they can spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymphatic systems.

Some cancer cells also have the ability to evade immune system attacks, which makes them easier to spread within the body. In addition, cancer cells can secrete growth factors, proteases, and other substances that can destroy surrounding normal tissues, creating conditions for the spread of cancer cells.

The response of the immune system

The response of the immune system also affects the spread of cancer cells. The immune system is an important defense mechanism of the body that can recognize and attack abnormal cells.

However, in some cases, the immune system may not be able to effectively recognize cancer cells, or cancer cells may evade immune system attacks through some mechanisms. This allows cancer cells to spread unrestrictedly within the body.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors also have a certain impact on the spread of cancer cells. Physical, chemical, and biological factors in the environment may all promote the spread of cancer cells. For example, radiation, chemical substances, and certain viruses may all increase the risk of cancer cell spread.

At the same time, lifestyle and dietary habits may also affect the spread of cancer cells. For example, lack of exercise, unhealthy diet, and other factors may lead to a decline in the body's immune function, thereby increasing the possibility of cancer cell spread.

Genetic Background

Some studies have shown that genetic factors play an important role in the occurrence and development of cancer. Certain genetic mutations may increase an individual's risk of developing cancer, and these mutations may also affect the ability of cancer cells to spread.

In addition, family studies have also found that the clustering of certain cancers within families may be related to genetic background.

02

Five Signs That the Body Sends When Cancer Has Metastasized

Weight Loss

If you have not changed your eating habits or increased your exercise, but your weight suddenly decreases, this may be a sign of cancer metastasis. Cancer cells consume a large amount of energy and nutrients during the process of spreading, leading to weight loss.

Persistent Pain

Cancer metastasis often leads to pain in certain parts of the body. This pain may last for weeks or months and continues to worsen. The pain may be caused by cancer cells invading nerves or compressing surrounding tissues.

Difficulty Breathing

If cancer spreads to the lungs or chest cavity, it may cause difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. This symptom usually occurs during activity or rest and may gradually worsen.

Digestive Issues

When cancer spreads to the gastrointestinal tract, it may cause digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. These symptoms may last for weeks or months and may affect appetite and nutrient absorption.

Fatigue and Weakness

Cancer metastasis may lead to physical fatigue and weakness that cannot be relieved even with sufficient rest and sleep. This is because cancer cells consume a large amount of energy and nutrients, making it difficult for the body to maintain normal physiological functions.

03

Why Do Cancer Patients Appear Vibrant and Have a Good Appetite Despite Cancer Spread? Here's the Reason

Factors Related to Tumor Location, With No Impact on Appetite and Digestive Capacity

In the medical field, the location of a tumor often determines its impact on the patient's quality of life. Some tumors, such as those growing in the lungs or liver, may affect the patient's breathing and digestive functions, leading to loss of appetite and decreased physical strength.

However, there are also some tumors, such as those growing on the skin or in organs that do not affect critical life functions, that may not have a significant impact on the patient's life.

Furthermore, different patients have varying bodily reactions and abilities to cope with illness. Some patients may be able to maintain a good living condition through their own regulatory mechanisms when facing the invasion of disease. They may possess strong immunity and a good mental state, enabling them to resist the invasion of the disease to a certain extent and exhibit a better quality of life.

Small Tumor Size

From a medical perspective, we understand that more than 90% of cancers do not present significant symptoms in their early stages. This means that many patients are already in the middle or late stages of the disease when they learn that they have cancer.

The rapid development of cancer is sometimes incredible, and it can progress from early to late stages in just a few months. During this critical period, if effective suppressive measures are not taken in time, the patient's life will be seriously threatened.

For patients who have already reached the middle or late stages, attention to daily life becomes particularly important. These details may be the key to helping patients reduce tumor size and alleviate their condition. Even though cancer cells have spread, through scientific diet, regular sleep and moderate exercise, the patient's physical condition can still be significantly improved, making the symptoms less obvious.

Patients are unaware of their condition and have a good mindset.

Before learning that they have cancer, patients often have a certain optimistic expectation about their physical condition. They may believe that their symptoms are just fatigue, discomfort, and other general issues, and do not realize that these are signs of cancer cell spread. Therefore, their mental state is relatively good and is not affected by excessive fear and anxiety.

Secondly, the mindset of patients facing illness is crucial. A positive mindset helps enhance their willpower and resistance to disease. Some patients choose to believe in the doctor's treatment plan and actively cooperate with treatment. This trust and cooperation give them more confidence to overcome the disease.

In addition, they may participate in rehabilitation activities and maintain social interactions to distract themselves from over-focusing on the disease, thereby maintaining a good mental state.

No Chemotherapy Administered

From a medical perspective, the spread of cancer cells does not necessarily mean that patients will immediately experience obvious symptoms. Sometimes, the growth rate of cancer cells is slow, and the direct impact on the body has not yet manifested, so the patient's physical condition may not be severely affected.

Moreover, individual differences are an important reason for this phenomenon. Everyone's bodily responses and resistance vary. Some patients may have strong tolerance, so even if cancer cells have spread, they can maintain a relatively good physiological state.

Chemotherapy, as a common treatment method, can kill cancer cells, but it can also cause some damage to normal cells, leading to a series of side effects in patients, such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, etc. Therefore, patients who have not undergone chemotherapy may appear to be in better mental condition and have a better appetite because they have avoided these side effects.

Where are cancer cells likely to spread in the body?

Nearby tissues and organs from the primary tumor

Cancer cells are most likely to spread to tissues and organs that are close to the primary tumor. This is because during the process of growth and spread, cancer cells will first invade the surrounding tissues and organs. For example, breast cancer is prone to spreading to axillary lymph nodes, and lung cancer is prone to spreading to the pleural and mediastinal lymph nodes.

Spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymphatic system!

Blood is one of the main pathways for cancer cell spread. Cancer cells can enter the blood circulation system and reach distant organs and tissues with the flow of blood, such as the brain, liver, lungs, bones, etc.

The lymphatic system is also an important pathway for cancer cell spread. Cancer cells can enter the lymphatic vessels and reach lymph nodes and other organs with the flow of lymphatic fluid.

Spread to the body's cavities and cavities within the body!

Cancer cells can also spread to the body's cavities and cavities within the body, such as the abdominal cavity, pleural cavity, pericardial cavity, etc. Cancer cells in these cavities can cause symptoms such as effusion and pain, which seriously affect the patient's quality of life.

To Avoid "Catalyzing" Cancer Cells, It Is Advisable to Consume More of These 5 Types of Foods!

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help clear free radicals from the body, reduce DNA damage, and thus lower the risk of cancer.

Especially foods rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E, such as carrots, spinach, and citrus fruits, are all good choices.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds, such as walnuts, almonds, and flaxseeds, are rich in healthy fats, proteins, fiber, and antioxidants. These components not only help maintain a healthy weight but also reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

In addition, certain components in nuts have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce the risk of inflammation-related diseases.

Whole grains

Whole grains such as oatmeal, brown rice, and whole-wheat bread are rich in fiber, B vitamins, and antioxidants. These components help maintain intestinal health, reduce intestinal inflammation, and thus lower the risk of colon cancer.

In addition, whole grains can also help us maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of other cancers.

High-quality sources of protein

Protein is an important component of the body and crucial for maintaining the health of the immune system. Choosing high-quality sources of protein, such as lean meat, fish, beans, and eggs, can provide the body with the necessary nutrients while avoiding excessive intake of saturated fats and cholesterol.

Tea

Tea is a natural source of antioxidants, especially green tea and black tea. The catechins in tea have anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects, which can help reduce the risk of cancer. Additionally, drinking tea can also help improve metabolism and promote body detoxification.

"Cancer Prevention Guidelines" Please Keep Them in Mind! Doctors Advise: Mastering 4 Methods Can Prevent Cancer Cell Metastasis

Method 1: Maintain Good Habits

Habits have a significant impact on the recovery of cancer patients and the prevention of cancer cell metastasis. It is recommended to maintain regular schedules, avoid overexertion, and ensure sufficient rest.

Method 2: Stick to Moderate Exercise

Moderate exercise can enhance the body's immunity and help prevent cancer cell metastasis. It is recommended to choose suitable exercise methods, such as walking, jogging, swimming, etc., and persevere in doing at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.

Method 3: Regularly Conduct Follow-Up Exams and Physical Examinations

Cancer patients need to regularly conduct follow-up exams and physical examinations to promptly detect and address possible cancer cell metastasis. During follow-up exams, doctors will monitor the patient's physical condition, tumor markers, and other indicators, as well as perform necessary imaging tests.

Method 4: Follow the Doctor's Treatment Advice

Following the doctor's treatment advice is crucial. The doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan based on the patient's specific condition, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, etc. Patients should actively cooperate with the treatment, take medication on time, and conduct regular follow-up exams, so as to better control the condition and prevent cancer cell metastasis.