- By Prerna Targhotra
- Sat, 09 Nov 2024 04:52 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Symptoms Of Lung Cancer: Among several types of cancers, lung cancer is a serious illness, but the good news is that catching it early can greatly improve the chances of successful treatment. Unfortunately, the signs of lung cancer can be subtle and are often mistaken for less serious issues. Let’s talk about some of these early signs and what to look out for.
In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr Sandeep Garg, Principal Consultant - Pulmonology, Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh listed important symptoms that one should not ignore and spot before it’s too late.
Symptoms Of Lung Cancer
One common but often overlooked symptom is a persistent cough. If you or a loved one has a cough that doesn’t go away after a few weeks, especially if it seems to get worse over time, it could be a warning sign. Similarly, coughing up blood, even in small amounts, should never be ignored and needs a doctor’s attention right away.
Another sign to watch for is chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing. This pain can sometimes be mistaken for a pulled muscle or other minor problem, but if it’s unusual or persistent, it’s worth having it checked out.
Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite can also be early indicators. If someone isn’t trying to lose weight but notices they’re dropping pounds, this could be the body signalling an underlying issue. The same goes for a general feeling of tiredness or weakness. While feeling tired is common, lung cancer fatigue can feel more intense, making even simple tasks hard to complete.
Warning Signs Of Lung Cancer (Image Credits: Canva)
Shortness of breath is another red flag, especially if it’s new or doesn’t seem to have a clear cause. If you find yourself out of breath doing activities that didn’t use to be tiring, like climbing stairs, talk to your doctor. Lastly, watch for changes in voice, like hoarseness. If your voice sounds rough or raspy and doesn’t get better after a week or two, it’s worth having checked.
If you or someone you know notices any of these symptoms, don’t wait to seek medical advice. Early detection can make a huge difference, so paying attention to these signs and talking to a healthcare professional can be life-saving.
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