NHS experts have warned people need to be aware of any red flags that may appear – no matter how subtle
Most people would rightly assume that breathing and chest-related symptoms would be a warning sign to look out for in lung cancer. However, there’s one sign that often gets overlooked.
According to the NHS: “Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious types of cancer. More than 43,000 people are diagnosed with the condition every year in the UK.”
In hectic day-to-day life, it can be easy to dismiss feeling tired as simply being run down and exhausted. But, when there doesn’t appear to be any real cause – or it’s persistent – you should get checked. According to the NHS, typical lung cancer warning signs 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
- loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
Chronic tiredness or fatigue may indicate lung cancer and is often one of the most frequently mentioned symptoms by patients, particularly as the illness advances. If you’re dealing with unexplained fatigue, it’s crucial to see a doctor to eliminate any serious health issues, including lung cancer.
According to Cancer Research, cancer in your lungs “can cause breathlessness and this can make you feel fatigued. A build up of fluid in your tummy (ascites) can also make you feel tired. This is because you’re not able to breathe properly.”
Whilst less common than the above, people should also be aware that lung cancer can also cause changes to your fingers with clubbing. There could also be some difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or pain when swallowing.
You should not delay seeking medical attention if you think you could also be suffering. Most cases of lung cancer are caused by smoking, although people who have never smoked can also develop the condition.
However long you have been smoking, it’s always worth quitting. Every year you do not smoke decreases your risk of getting serious illnesses, such as lung cancer.
After 12 years of not smoking, your chance of developing lung cancer falls to more than half that of someone who smokes. After 15 years, your chances of getting lung cancer are almost the same as someone who has never smoked.
The NHS also suggested that diet and exercise has been proven to lower your risk of developing lung cancer. A balanced diet that is low-fat, high-fibre has been proven to help reduce your risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer and heart disease.
The NHS recommends that most adults do at least 150 minutes (two hours and 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, plus strength-training exercises at least twice a week. You could go swimming, walking or anything that suits your lifestyle as long as you’re moving your body.
If you can find something enjoyable to do, exercise will often be less of a chore. It might help to exercise alongside someone like a friend or family member for support.
See a GP if you have any of the main symptoms of lung cancer or any of the less common symptoms. Acting quickly will allow experts to determine if you do have cancer and start treatment quickly, increasing your chance of survival.
See a GP if you have any of the main symptoms of lung cancer or any of the less common symptoms. You can find more information on Cancer Research UK’s website and on Macmillan via its signs and symptoms of lung cancer page.
