Lung cancer is the 2nd most common but deadliest cancer in men. In most cases, lung cancer does not begin with an ordinary, dramatic cough or some other sign that one can actually see. Actually, the initial symptoms of lung cancer remain so silent to an extent that some individuals are just dismissing them as mere tiredness or even cold.
However, in the early stages of lung cancer, you can be saved. Hence, this is the reason why the early symptoms of lung cancer and the time to act on it is very important.
What Lung Cancer Symptoms Are Like in the Beginning
You may think that lung cancer symptoms are evident. Though they do not always. Rather, it may start with something as simple as running out of breath after a brief walk, or a cough when laughing. Does not sound so bad, right? Though a persistent cough when laughing may be among the initial symptoms of lung cancer, particularly when it persists or gets severer.
Common indicators are:
● Persistent Cough
A constant cough that won’t go is one of the first signs of lung cancer. Most people mistake it for a seasonal allergy, but if it lasts more than 3 weeks, do get it checked.
● Breathing Issues
You might feel shortness of breath during activities like climbing stairs or doing just simple tasks that include physical activities. But the problem is it is not normal. Your lungs could be struggling. Tumours can block airways or cause fluid build-up, which makes it difficult to breathe normally.
● Chest Pain and Discomfort
Chest pain could mean many things. But in lung cancer, you might feel it more when you breathe in, cough, or laugh. Some patients describe it as pressure and definitely not that sharp pain. If it’s sticking around, it’s worth checking.
● Your Voice Sounds Different
If your hoarseness is not going away after a week or two, it can be a warning sign. Your voice may begin to change, frequently sounding weaker as tumors press against the nerves that regulate your vocal chords.
● Unexplained Fatigue or Weight Loss
When you are exceptionally tired even though you have slept well, and do not feel better, then it may be your body giving you a sign of something more serious. Cancer is able to decrease the energy levels in your body and leave you totally drained. Un-intentional weight loss together with that is a tell-tell sign that something is wrong.
● Frequent Chest Infections
Recurring bronchitis or pneumonia can be a red flag. When a tumour blocks airflow, it creates an environment for bacteria to grow. So if your chest infections keep coming back, it’s time to ask your doctor about lung cancer screening.
● Blood in the Cough (Hemoptysis)
This symptom always warrants medical attention even if it’s just a small amount. If you’re coughing up blood, it’s a sign something is irritating or damaging your lung tissues.
Are These Signs the Same for Everyone?
Not exactly. There are slight differences in how the disease presents: Both show different symptoms. Symptoms of lung cancer in men mostly are mistaken by work fatigue such as breathlessness, continual cough or loss in weight.
The symptoms of lung cancer in women could include:
● Shoulder/upper back pain
● Coughing that does not get better
● Stress in the chest with no apparent reason
The Misconception
Many think that a number of people who are diagnosed with lung cancer have never smoked. These people usually delay screening because they don’t see that they might be at risk.
This delay is dangerous. If you live in or around Bagshot, Surrey, and have any concerning lung cancer symptoms, it’s worth visiting us and getting them checked professionally.
Early Screening Can Save Lives
The earlier lung cancer is detected, the better the treatment is, and more chances there are of survival. Cancer Research UK stated that the survival rate is higher among patients diagnosed at stage 1 with a 5-year survival rate being approximately 60 percent as compared with 5 percent survival at stage 4.
Lung cancer screening is advised particularly among the population of high-risk individuals, smoking history, age or occupation but not limited to such factors.
We Are in Bagshot Surrey
Whenever you feel you’re experiencing some of the above-mentioned symptoms or you are concerned with your risk factors, it is time to do something about it.
At our clinic in Bagshot, Surrey, our lung health checks and GP visits are carried out in a private setting and aim to identify early warnings so they can be addressed before they become more serious. Our caring clinicians will support you in every step of the way including screening and referring to specialists in case there is a need.
Book Your Consultation
Schedule a private lung check GP Consultation with our team in Bagshot, Surrey today, online as well to catch lung cancer early and save lives.
FAQs:
Q: Is lung cancer painful?
A: It can be, but not always early on. Pain may develop as the tumour grows and presses on other structures.
Q: How I knew I had lung cancer?
A: The majority of individuals would only know it when the symptoms, especially the coughing sensation, breathlessness or fatigue do not disappear even after medication.
Q: What are the hidden signs of lung cancer?
A: Shortness of breath, alteration of voice, unexplained fatigue, and slight chest or back pain are the early signs.
