Early Detection Saves Lives
It is important to learn about the signs and symptoms of lung cancer so you can get a quick and early diagnosis. In this article, we will look at 10 key lung cancer signs so you know what to look for and when to speak to your doctor.
1. Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)
Many people notice that they get out of breath more quickly than usual. Even simple tasks, like walking up a few stairs, can leave you feeling very tired. This shortness of breath is called dyspnea. It happens when the lung’s ability to bring enough oxygen to your body is reduced.
2. Persistent Cough
A cough is common when you have a cold or flu, but if your cough does not go away over time, it deserves attention. A persistent cough is one that lasts for weeks or months and it is one of the most common early signs of lung cancer. Your body may be trying to clear away abnormal growths or irritation in the lungs. If you find that your cough continues or gets worse, it is important to get it checked by a doctor.
3. Chest Pain
Chest pain can be a very alarming symptom and it may occur for many reasons. In the case of lung cancer, chest pain can happen if the cancer grows close to the chest wall or affects other tissues in that area. The pain might feel sharp, dull or like a heavy weight on your chest. It might also become worse when you breathe, cough or laugh.
4. Coughing Up Blood (Hemoptysis)
Hemoptysis is a term used to describe coughing up blood or sputum that is tinged with blood. This sign is especially important because it is not a common symptom in less serious illnesses. Even if the amount of blood seems small or light, it should never be ignored. The presence of blood can indicate that the lung tissues are damaged or that there is an abnormal growth disrupting the normal lining of the airway.
5. Wheezing
Wheezing is a whistling sound made while breathing out, or exhaling. This happens when something is blocking the airway or narrowing the passages in the lungs. When lung cancer causes this blockage, you might notice that your wheezing increases during an infection or physical activity. It can also be accompanied by shortness of breath.
6. Shoulder Pain
Sometimes lung cancer can cause pain that is felt in the shoulder. This might seem strange at first because the lung is far away from the shoulder, but the nerves in the body can connect different areas. The cancer might press on the nerves in the lung that may also serve the shoulder area. As a result, the pain might feel like it is in the shoulder even though the problem starts in the chest.
7. Hoarse Voice
A hoarse voice, or a change in voice, can also be a sign of lung cancer. This happens when the cancer affects the nerves or muscles that help you speak. When you notice that your voice sounds raspy or weak and it does not improve over time, it might be more than just a cold.
8. Horner's Syndrome
Horner's Syndrome is not very common, but it can occur in some patients with lung cancer. It is a group of symptoms that can affect the face and eye. These symptoms include a smaller pupil, drooping of the eyelid and less sweating on one side of the face. This happens when the cancer presses on or affects the nerves that control the eye and face.
9. Superior Vena Cava Syndrome (SVCS)
Superior Vena Cava Syndrome happens when a tumor presses on the superior vena cava, which is a large vein that returns blood from the head and upper body to the heart. This pressure makes it hard for blood to flow normally. Signs of SVCS can include swelling of the face, neck and arms, as well as a feeling of fullness in those areas. If you notice unexpected swelling, especially around the face or neck, it is important to get help from a medical professional immediately.
10. Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss is another warning sign of lung cancer. Many adults lose weight for many reasons, but when weight loss happens without a change in diet or exercise, it can be a sign of a serious problem. Cancer can cause weight loss by changing the way your body uses energy.
Keep reading to learn some of the best ways to quit smoking.