Symptoms and Early Signs of Lung Cancer
Disease description:
Recently, I've been feeling that something isn't quite right with my body. I cough from time to time, experience chest pain, and sometimes have difficulty breathing. I'm very worried that I might have developed lung cancer. What are the specific symptoms and warning signs of lung cancer?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Qi Zhirong
The symptoms and signs of lung cancer vary depending on individual differences, as well as the type, location, size, and stage of the tumor. In the early stages, lung cancer may not cause obvious symptoms. As the disease progresses, the following symptoms and signs may appear:
1. Persistent cough: One of the common symptoms, especially in individuals who do not smoke or rarely cough. The cough may be accompanied by blood streaks.
2. Shortness of breath: When lung function is affected, patients may experience breathlessness, especially after physical activity.
3. Chest pain: Pain located in the chest area, which may be dull or sharp, often related to breathing, coughing, or body movement.
4. Hoarseness: If the tumor compresses the recurrent laryngeal nerve, it may affect the vocal cords, causing hoarseness.
5. Weight loss and loss of appetite: Nonspecific symptoms that are commonly seen in advanced cancer stages.
6. Blood in sputum or hemoptysis: Some patients may experience spitting blood or blood-tinged sputum, which may result from tumor invasion of blood vessels. The amount of blood coughed up can vary depending on the tumor's size and location.
If you feel unwell, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.
