Many of us are hypochondriacs who will run to the doctor over the smallest medical issue for reassurance that we are going to be ok.
In the back of our minds, we sort of know that we are overreacting, but it’s nice to have our suspicions that we are in fact in rude health confirmed by someone who has spent almost a decade in training to qualify them to make such judgements.
However, every now and then, we suspect that this time, something might actually really truly be very wrong. In the case of lung cancer, our suspicions may play tricks on us because there are usually no signs in the early stages of developing the condition. This means that when we do start to feel symptoms, the sensation is immediate and scary and hard to believe.
Your initial research into lung cancer may reveal many common symptoms – click the link to find out if you always lose weight with lung cancer. Read on for more of the effects you might find with lung cancer.
Coughs and Chest Infections
If you have noticed a cough has persisted for 2-3 weeks, or if you keep feeling like you have beaten a chest infection only for it to return almost straight away, these could be signs and symptoms of an underlying deeper cause such as lung cancer. Although not always a symptom, coughing up blood is another sign of lung cancer that may go hand in hand with a cough or chest infection.
Aches, Pains, Tiredness
Lung cancer patients often report symptoms of ache and pains related to normal breathing, and unexplained tiredness throughout the day. This could also mean that the patient experiences bouts of breathlessness that are out of character and not befitting their age or fitness level. Wheezing and a hoarse voice are also linked to these symptoms.
Pain When Swallowing and a Loss of Appetite
Most of us love to eat. From breakfast burritos, snacks at elevenses, lunchtime fridge raids, and evening meals to feed an army, we enjoy our food and we look forward to meals. That’s why noticing pain when swallowing is common (because we do it so often) and could be a symptom of a deeper issue. Although not a sure-fire symptom of cancer, loss of appetite is certainly something that would stand out for many of us, but when linked to other supporting symptoms could mean you need to see your doctor.
Shoulder pain and swelling in the face or neck are other less common symptoms linked to lung cancer, but if you experience any symptoms at all, it’s always worth staying on the safe side and getting checked out by your doctor.
