Lung Cancer Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore

Lung cancer has emerged as one of lethal types of cancer all across the globe as it is often diagnosed too late. Some symptoms associated with lung cancer are subtle or may be linked with common respiratory illness. If you spot the early warning symptoms or signs of the cancer, one can significantly boost the possibilities of successful cure.

According to World Health Organisation (WHO), “symptoms of lung cancer include a cough that does not go away, chest pain and shortness of breath. It is important to seek medical care early to avoid serious health effects. Treatments depend on the person’s medical history and the stage of the disease.”

Common Types of Lung Cancer

The most common types of lung cancer include non-small cell carcinoma or NSCLC and small cell carcinoma or SCLC. NSCLC is a more common form of lung cancer that can grow in a gradual manner. On the other hand, SCLC is less common form of lung cancer but it can grow very fast.  

Risk Factors of Lung Cancer

The primary risk factor of lung cancer includes smoking cigarettes, cigar and pipes. However, lung cancer can affect even non-smokers. The other potential risk factors of the deadly disease is exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, previous chronic lung diseases, occupational hazards like asbestos, radon, and some specific chemicals, and hereditary cancer syndromes, added the WHO report.  

Signs of Lung Cancer You Should Never Ignore

1. Persistent Cough: If you notice regular cough that has not been going away, it can be a crucial sign of lung cancer. If the cough persists for more than 2-3 weeks, it is time to visit your health care professional at the earliest.  

2. Blood In Cough: If you spot blood in the cough, it can also point to something alarming. However, coughing up blood can also indicate some infections, bronchitis, lung diseases, or tuberculosis. It is worth noting that blood in cough is not a healthy sign and can be one of the major signs of lung cancer.  

3. Breath Shortness: You may also witness shortness of breath while indulging in the day to day chores. The reason behind could be that lung cancer may have blocked the air passages thus making it hard to breathe in a normal manner, according to Park Hospitals.

4. Loss of Appetite: Some individuals may lose their appetite prior to the diagnosis of lung cancer. The symptom is caused by the disease and if you notice something like this accompanied by other aforementioned symptoms, visit some lung hospital at the earliest as any delay can turn out to be fatal.

5. Pain In Chest: Breath shortness is likely to be accompanied by chest pain. If you experience chest pain while coughing, taking deep breaths, or laughing, it points to something serious that requires immediate medical intervention.   

6. Unexplained Weigh Loss: If you notice sudden and unexpected weight loss without spending any efforts or indulging in physical exercises, it can be a worrying sign. Weight loss never takes place on its own. When cancer rises, cancerous cells can eat your energy and leads to sudden and unexplained weight loss.  

7. Fatigue: It is also accompanied with cancer. If you experience severe and different type of fatigue than regular ones, it can be a serious cause of concern. The fatigue will not go away even after take sufficient rest and you feel drained of your energy.  

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.