Not only is lung cancer the second most rampant cancer in the USA, but it’s also one of the deadliest worldwide. Its fatality relies heavily on how it goes unnoticed for the longest while until it gets to an advanced stage. Thankfully, more awareness is being drawn to the condition, educating people on how to recognize common symptoms early. This cancer has to be detected early for fast treatment and higher chances of survival. In this article, we’ll detail how you can recognize the symptoms of lung cancer and seek the medical help you need quickly.
What Are the Common Early Symptoms of Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer’s symptoms do not manifest early until it gets to an advanced stage. However, the subtle warnings that may give you a heads-up include the following.
Shortness of Breath
Unless you’re grossly unfit, performing everyday activities shouldn’t leave you breathless all the time. If you notice yourself running out of breath from short walks, climbing stairs, or lifting things, it might be time to get checked. This is because lung cancer causes fluid build-up and blockages, restricting proper breathing.
Lingering Cough and Blood-Tinged Phlegm
Sometimes, it’s just another cough that you could treat with a cough syrup. Other times, it may be the beginning of lung cancer, especially when it persists for weeks and doesn’t respond to medication.
Another indicator is if the cough produces rust-colored or blood-tinged phlegm. Any abnormally colored phlegm or severe cough is a red flag that you should have checked out in your regular checkups.
Unexpected Weight Loss
Don’t be too fast in rejoicing about losing weight when you’re not actively trying. Lung cancer can change your body’s metabolism, making you lose weight fast and unexpectedly. If you observe this, it’s time to get checked and rule out lung cancer.
Unexplained Chest Pain
If you experience chest pain when you laugh, cough, or breathe deeply, it could be a sign of lung cancer. The pain is not restricted to the chest; it could radiate to the shoulders or back. A tumor pressing on the lungs’ lining or on a nerve may be the cause of the pain, and you should have checked it out.
Frequent Lung Infections
A tumor blocking part of the airway makes you vulnerable to infections. These infections can include recurrences of pneumonia and bronchitis. If you’ve been frequenting a doctor, they can easily help you confirm or rule out lung cancer.
What Are the Risk Factors of Lung Cancer?
You’re more likely to experience the symptoms and be confirmed for lung cancer if the following applies to you.
- Smoking: The primary cause of lung cancer, responsible for about 85% of cases worldwide.
- Secondhand smoking: If you’re frequently exposed to smoke, you’re at huge risk of developing the disease.
- Asbestos and other carcinogens: Exposure to asbestos in the workplace or home can cause mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of lung cancer. Other carcinogens include diesel exhaust and arsenic.
- Radon gas: This gas occurs naturally in homes and puts individuals at risk of lung cancer.
- Family history: If there’s a long history of lung cancer in the family, then you may have an increased risk of having the disease. This is known as genetic predisposition.
Endnote
If any of the symptoms above persist for more than two weeks, it’s crucial to get checked. While they may be symptoms of other conditions, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Early detection saves lives and improves your chances of survival.
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