Cancer is of different types depending on the part of the body, the dangerous cancerous cells grow and multiply. Among all, lung cancer is the deadliest one and accounts for about 19 per cent of the total cancer-related deaths every year worldwide. The growth of cancerous cells in the lungs is fairly typical in those who smoke regularly or have a profession where they are exposed to harmful chemicals. In the early stage, it is typically hard to identify the signs of lung cancer as there are few nerve endings in the lungs which makes it easy for the cancer cells to grow without causing any discomfort to the individual. Sometimes they are not even identified till the condition reaches an advanced stage. However, there are a few early noticeable symptoms witnessed in rare cases. Knowing these symptoms is essential for those who are prone to the deadly disease and can help you get the correct treatment at the time.
1. Persistent cough
One may have a cough due to cold or flu. But in both conditions, the cough does not last for more than ten days. For those suffering from lung cancer, coughing is very regularly seen. They may cough persistently without any reason throughout the year. Though coughing is a way to stop foreign particles from entering your airways and the lungs, chronic coughing is the foremost sign of lung cancer.
2. Breathlessness
When the cancerous cells start multiplying at a rapid speed in the lungs, they block the airways or narrow them, thus reducing the flow of the air into the lungs. This makes it difficult for the person to breathe the required amount of air to transport to all the parts of the body, making the person feel winded or breathless. Even after walking up a flight of stairs, the person may have a hard time catching their breath.
3. Hoarseness
Lung cancer can also change the voice of the person, making it sound raspy or hoarse. It can happen over time and if you witness any changes in your voice, it is better to consult the doctor at the earliest. However, lung cancer is not the only reason the sound of your voice changes. So, do not panic and get yourself diagnosed for confirmation.
4. Body pain
Body pain is a general health issue, which we often ignore until it starts affecting our day to day activity. There are many reasons your body might hurt; it can also be after sitting for too long or after a session of heavy exercising. But these are rare cases and the entire body might be in pain. But those suffering from lung cancer may particularly witness pain in the chest, shoulders, or back. It is a regular health issue for these individuals.
5. Weight loss and fatigue
An unexplained weight loss of 4 kilos or more within a short period can be an indication of an underlying health condition, one of which can be lung cancer. The growth of the cancerous cells can lead to loss of appetite and a change in body weight. When suffering from any type of cancer, the energy produced by the food you eat is consumed by cancer cells, leading to fatigue and weight loss. Weight change is an important sign that should not be ignored.
