Symptoms of the disease often don’t appear until the cancer has spread through the lungs or into other parts of the body, which can make it more difficult to treat
The danger with lung cancer is that symptoms often don’t appear until the harmful cells have spread throughout the body. However, there might be a few early signs of the disease that you could notice.
Typical symptoms include breathlessness, wheezing and a persistent cough accompanied by blood or phlegm.
While many of the symptoms are respiratory in nature, medics have discovered that there is one early telltale sign of lung cancer that appears on your fingertips – here’s what you need to know.
What is the early sign of lung cancer on fingertips
When you press your fingernails together, do you see a tiny diamond-shaped window of light? If this gap isn’t visible, you might have finger clubbing, which is when the ends of your fingers swell up – and this could be an indication of lung cancer.
This condition occurs in stages, starting at the base of the nail, which becomes soft. Subsequently, the skin next to the nail bed becomes shiny, after which the nails start to curve more than usual when viewed from the side.
Finally, the tips of the fingers may enlarge and swell due to fluid accumulating in the soft tissues of the fingers.
While the absence of this diamond-shaped gap between fingernails doesn’t automatically mean you have lung cancer, it could potentially be a symptom. Therefore, the best course of action is to consult your doctor if you notice it.
Brian Gemmell, a lung cancer patient whose only symptom was finger clubbing, urges: “Go and see your doctor If you’ve got anything that you’re concerned about – that’s what a GP is for. Go as soon as you can.'”.
Early detection can make a significant difference in treatment options, with West Lancashire-based GP Dr Helen Piercy advising: “If you notice any signs or symptoms that concern you, see your GP.
“First phone for an appointment. You will be assessed. You will be invited in, if you need to be seen face-to-face. Don’t be afraid. Pick up the phone.”
Lung cancer can cause a range of symptoms, which can differ from person to person. Some individuals may experience multiple symptoms, while others may not notice any at all.
What are the symptoms of lung cancer?
Lung cancer symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may experience numerous symptoms while others may have none.
The main symptoms of lung cancer include:
- a cough that does not go away after 3 weeks.
- a long-standing cough that gets worse.
- chest infections that keep coming back.
- coughing up blood.
- an ache or pain when breathing or coughing.
- persistent breathlessness.
- persistent tiredness or lack of energy.
These signs don’t always mean you have lung cancer, but it’s best to consult your GP if you have any of the above concerns. For more information from the NHS click here.