8 early signs of lung cancer you shouldn’t ignore

Lung cancer symptoms: A cough that doesn’t go away after several weeks or worsens over time, especially if it’s different from your usual smoker’s cough, is concerning (Image: Canva)

Lung cancer, the most common cancer worldwide, is responsible for more cancer-related deaths than any other type. In India, it accounts for about 6 percent of all cancer diagnoses and over 8 percent of cancer-related deaths. Smoking remains the leading cause, with around 80 percent of lung cancer cases occurring in current or former smokers.

Over 95 percent of lung cancers in India are identified at either advanced stage or after they have spread to other parts of the body. Says Dr Sredharan M., Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Manipal Hospital Goa, “This is because in early stages, lung cancer shows either vague symptoms or no symptoms at all. With the increasing stage of the cancer, the chance of survival drops significantly.”

While the symptoms of lung cancer can vary and may not always be apparent in the early stages, some common signs could indicate the disease, Dr Sredharan says, and shares 8 early signs of this deadly disease:

Persistent cough: A cough that doesn’t go away after several weeks or worsens over time, especially if it’s different from your usual smoker’s cough, is concerning. Lung cancer irritates the airways and can cause persistent coughing as the tumor grows and obstructs airflow. If a cough lasts more than three weeks, especially if it produces blood or changes in nature, it’s critical to see a doctor. Chronic cough is a common early symptom, particularly in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Coughing up blood: Even a small amount of blood or rust-coloured sputum in your cough is a red flag. This can occur when lung cancer tumours erode nearby blood vessels, leading to bleeding in the airways. Hemoptysis is a serious symptom that requires immediate medical evaluation. It’s not just a sign of lung cancer but can also indicate other conditions like bronchitis, tuberculosis, or pulmonary embolism.

Shortness of breath: Experiencing breathlessness or wheezing during activities that previously didn’t cause any issues may indicate lung cancer. Tumours can block air passages or cause fluid buildup in the lungs (pleural effusion), leading to breathing difficulties. Shortness of breath can be a sign of both early and advanced lung cancer.

Chest pain: Discomfort or pain in the chest, particularly when breathing deeply, coughing, or laughing, could be linked to lung cancer. This pain might be due to tumour invasion into the chest wall or pleura, the lining around the lungs. Chest pain associated with lung cancer is often dull and persistent. If the pain worsens over time or is localised in one area, it could indicate the spread of cancer to the chest wall or ribs, and a medical evaluation is necessary.

Hoarseness : A sudden, unexplained change in your voice, particularly if it becomes hoarse, could signal lung cancer. This occurs when the cancer affects the laryngeal nerve, which controls the voice box (larynx). Hoarseness can be a symptom of lung cancer pressing on the recurrent laryngeal nerve, leading to vocal cord paralysis.

Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight unexpectedly without changes in diet or exercise may be a sign of lung cancer. Cancer can increase the body's metabolic rate and lead to muscle wasting (cachexia). Unexplained weight loss is often one of the first signs of cancer.

Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak, even without physical exertion, can be an early warning sign. Lung cancer can cause systemic inflammation and disrupt normal body processes, leading to fatigue. Fatigue in cancer patients is often described as feeling physically, emotionally, and mentally drained.

Frequent infection: Recurring respiratory infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, could indicate lung cancer. Tumours can obstruct the airways, creating a breeding ground for infections. If you find yourself getting respiratory infections more often, or if they are harder to treat, it could be a sign of lung cancer weakening the immune system or blocking airways.

Other symptoms like bone pain (especially in the lower back or hips), jaundice, swollen neck lymph nodes, headaches, dizziness, balance issues, or seizures can signal advanced lung cancer. These symptoms can also be linked to less serious conditions, but if they persist or worsen, it's essential to consult a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to better outcomes.