Lung cancer symptoms: Five ‘surprising signs and symptoms’ you should never ignore
Lung cancer: Signs and symptoms to look out for
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Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers to be diagnosed in the UK, but it’s rarely spotted in its early stages. It’s vital that everyone watches out for the key warning signs of lung cancer – although they might not be as obvious as you think.
Lung cancer affects almost 50,000 people each year in the UK.
Most people diagnosed with the cancer are older than 40 years old, with almost half of those above 75 years old.
The most common cause of lung cancer is smoking. More than 70 percent of all cases are linked to smoking.
But it can be very difficult to know if you have lung cancer, as the symptoms are very subtle in its early stages.
The most common signs of lung cancer tend to affect the lungs, unsurprisingly.
However, the condition can also cause other changes in the body that you may be ignoring.
Some patients notice subtle changes to their fingernails, where the nails begin to curve around the fingertip – a symptom known as finger clubbing.
Arm and shoulder pain could also be caused by a certain type of lung cancer, if it spreads to the nerves.
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Lung cancer could even lead to small voice changes, warned the Cancer Care Centers of Brevard.
Your voice might sound more hoarse than normal, or you could produce sounds that you’re not used to.
Up to 20 percent of all patients develop persistent thirst and frequent urination.
Everyone should also be looking out for a drooping eyelid, it added. It’s a sign of Horner Syndrome, which is linked to advanced lung cancer.
“If you think that the most common symptoms of lung cancer involve the lungs, you’d be correct,” it said.
“In fact, persistent coughing, coughing up blood or excess mucus, shortness of breath, and chest pain are all common signs of lung cancer.
“What you might not know, however, is that lung cancer can cause some changes in the body that aren’t the obvious signs of chest pain or a cough that won’t go away.
“Know the symptoms to watch for, trust your instincts, and be sure to talk with your doctor about scheduling a lung cancer screening, if you are considered high risk.”
The best way to avoid developing lung cancer is to give up smoking, if you’re a smoker.
Eating a healthy, balanced diet could also lower your risk of the disease.
Everyone should aim to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day.
It’s also absolutely crucial that you stay active, and do at least 150 minutes of exercise every week.
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