Lung Cancer Symptoms: A Comprehensive Guide
Lung cancer is one of the deadliest cancers in the world. Despite its seriousness, it is often diagnosed in the late stages due to the absence of obvious symptoms in the early stages. However, there is a range of symptoms that may indicate the presence of lung cancer, which you should pay attention to and turn to a doctor when they appear.
Common Symptoms of Lung Cancer
The symptoms that appear in people with lung cancer may vary depending on the type of tumor and its stage of development, but there are some common symptoms that you should pay attention to, namely:
- Persistent cough: It is the most common symptom and may be dry or accompanied by phlegm.
- Coughing up blood: The appearance of blood in the sputum is a serious warning sign and requires immediate medical review.
- Shortness of breath: It may gradually worsen and affect daily activities.
- Chest pain: The pain may be severe or mild, and may worsen when coughing or breathing deeply.
- Wheezing in the chest: indicates a blockage in the airways.
- Unexplained weight loss: Significant weight loss without any change in diet or exercise.
- Fatigue and exhaustion: feeling of constant fatigue and general weakness in the body.
- Hoarseness: It may occur as a result of the tumor spreading to the vocal cords.
- Loss of appetite: loss of desire to eat.
Other symptoms that may indicate the spread of the disease:
- Swelling of the face and neck: may occur as a result of the tumor pressing on blood vessels or lymph nodes.
- Pain in the bones: Cancer may spread to the bones, causing severe pain.
- Persistent headache: may occur as a result of the spread of cancer to the brain.
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes: may indicate liver problems.
Causes of lung cancer
- Smoking: Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, as tobacco smoke contains many carcinogenic chemicals.
- Exposure to carcinogens: Exposure to certain chemicals in the workplace, such as asbestos and radon, can increase the risk of lung cancer.
- Family history: People with a family history of lung cancer are more likely to develop it.
- Aging: The risk of lung cancer increases with age.
When should I see a doctor?
If you experience any of the above symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen, you should see a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis of lung cancer increases the chances of recovery.
The bottom line
Lung cancer is a serious disease, but it can be cured if detected at an early stage. Therefore, everyone should pay attention to any changes that occur in their health, and turn to the doctor immediately when they feel any abnormal symptoms.
Note: This article is for general information purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for consulting a physician.
