Early detection of lung cancer is essential to have the best chance of survival. Here are the most common symptoms.
- There are many symptoms of lung cancer.
- These symptoms can be respiratory but also more general.
- The earlier the diagnosis is made, the better the chances of survival.
Cancer is generally present well before the onset of symptoms, but there are certain signs that may alert you, they can be respiratory but also non-respiratory, specifies theHealth Insurance.
Respiratory symptoms of lung cancer
The respiratory symptoms of lung cancer are diverse but they are not specific to this disease. Smokers or former smokers sometimes have a persistent cough which can be a sign of cancer if it gets worse.
Recent shortness of breath or worsening breathing difficulties, chest and/or shoulder pain, sputum containing blood (called hemoptysis), frequent lung infections (bronchitis or pneumonia) can also be symptoms of lung cancer. .
We can also cite a change in the voice (timbre or intensity) which becomes hoarse or veiled, or even wheezing.
Non-respiratory symptoms to watch for
Lung cancer can also cause non-respiratory symptoms such as loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss, excessive fatigue (asthenia), difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or chest pain.
Specialists sometimes notice edema of the neck and eyelids in the morning upon waking, it is due to compression of the vena cava by lymph nodes present in the thorax.
In addition, any lasting anomaly must be monitored: “symptoms accompanying lung cancer but not related to the lungs may appear. They are grouped under the name ‘paraneoplastic syndromes’”, specifies theHealth Insurance.
Early diagnosis increases chances of survival
The National Cancer Institute recalls that lung cancer is the third most common cancer and the leading cause of death from cancer.
The earlier the cancer is diagnosed, the more effective the treatment will be and the greater the patient’s chances of survival. It is important to consult a doctor as soon as symptoms appear. Cancer Research Foundation.