Early Warning Signs of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed types of cancer. It is the leading cause of death from cancer in both males and females. 50% of people who get lung cancer are smokers. However, lung cancer may also develop in people who have never smoked. 15% of people who develop lung cancer have never smoked. Lung cancer presents many early warning signs. These can be used to detect it in early stages. If lung cancer is detected in the early stages, the chances of an effective treatment will be high.

Early symptoms of lung cancer

Chronic cough that doesn't go away

If you have a chronic cough that doesn't go away, it is best to contact your doctor and get yourself screened for lung cancer. Many people attribute cough to something else and neglect it.

Another early warning sign of lung cancer is hemoptysis or coughing up blood. Even if you observe small traces of blood in the sputum when you cough, you should immediately contact your doctor. Hemoptysis is a classic early symptom of lung cancer.

Shortness of breath

Shortness of breath after activity is another indication of lung cancer. This is another often ignored symptom of lung cancer. If you experience shortness of breath after activity, it is best to get yourself screened for lung cancer. Do not ignore this symptom.

Pain in the shoulders, chest and arms

Pain in the shoulders, chest and arms may be experienced due to the cancer cells pressing against the nerves which connect to these regions. If you experience pain in the shoulders, chest and arms which is not due to some injury, it can be an indication of lung cancer. Pain in the shoulders and chest regions is observed in almost 50% of lung cancer diagnoses.

Bronchitis and pneumonia

In many cases, lung cancer is detected after episodes of bronchitis and pneumonia. The cancer cells can cause obstruction of the Airways which can result in bronchitis and pneumonia. Thus it is a good idea to get yourself screened for lung cancer if you have frequent episodes of bronchitis or pneumonia.

General decline in overall health

If you experience a decline in your overall health, you should contact your doctor. Even seemingly unrelated symptoms like knee pain should not be ignored. Cancers often present symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite and depression. If you experience these symptoms, it is best to talk to your doctor. If lung cancer is detected early, the chances of treatment will be good.

About Aditya Venkatesh

Aditya Venkatesh is a computer-enthusiast who is fascinated by computer technology, gadgets and the Internet. He writes frequently on computers and other topics on www.AdiWebs.com. In the past, he worked as a technical writer at a leading web development company in Hyderabad, India. His other interests include photography and DIY projects.

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