Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. This type of cancer can be deadly if not caught early on; moreover, lung cancer is easier to treat when it is diagnosed early. Common treatments for lung cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Clinical trials testing new treatments can also be an option for some patients. Here are the major warning signs of lung cancer to watch out for:
1. Worsening cough
A worsening cough is one of the earliest symptoms of lung cancer, often signifying that the cancer is starting to grow. If you have a cough that lasts for more than a few weeks, it’s important to see a doctor so they can rule out other causes and identify the issue.
2. Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath can be caused by lung cancer when the tumor starts to obstruct airflow in the lungs. Other conditions can also cause shortness of breath, so you must see a doctor to seek a diagnosis if you’re experiencing this symptom.
3. Chest pain
Chest pain caused by lung cancer is usually a result of the tumor pressing on nerves or blood vessels in the chest. If you’re experiencing chest pain, it’s important to see a doctor so they can rule out other causes.
4. Coughing up blood
Trace blood or rust-colored sputum in coughed-up mucus can occur in lung cancer patients. If you notice blood in your saliva or phlegm, you should see your doctor immediately.
5. Sudden and unexplained weight loss
Weight loss caused by cancer is often unexplained and occurs over weeks or months. See your doctor if you’re losing weight without changing your diet or exercise habits.
6. Fatigue
Fatigue is a symptom of cancer because the rapid growth of cancer cells uses up a lot of energy, leaving the patient feeling exhausted. Other conditions can also cause fatigue, so you must see a doctor and seek a diagnosis if you’re experiencing this symptom.
7. Hoarseness
Hoarseness is a common symptom of this type of cancer, though it is more commonly associated with laryngeal cancer, which is another form of respiratory cancer that begins in the throat rather than the lungs. Most people with hoarseness due to laryngeal cancer will also have other symptoms, such as a change in their voice, pain when swallowing, or earache. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor immediately for an evaluation.
8. Additional lung cancer symptoms
Cancer that has spread outside the lungs causes additional symptoms. For example, bone pain, headaches, dizziness, and paralysis of certain muscles in the face may occur if cancer has spread to the brain. If you have any of these symptoms, see a doctor right away. Again, these symptoms may also be caused by other health problems, so getting a diagnosis as soon as possible is imperative to getting proper treatment.
You can lower your risk of cancer, including lung cancer, by eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and exercising regularly.
