Lung cancer is one of the most common and fatal types of cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, about 228,000 new cases of lung cancer will be diagnosed in 2020, and more than 135,000 people will die from the disease.

While early detection is critical for successful treatment, lung cancer often goes unnoticed until it has progressed to an advanced stage. One of the keys to detecting lung cancer early is understanding the red flag symptoms that may indicate the presence of the disease.

Cough That Doesn’t Go Away or Gets Worse

A persistent cough is one of the most common symptoms of lung cancer. While most coughs are caused by respiratory infections or allergies, a cough that lasts for more than two weeks or gets worse over time could be a sign of something more serious.

In some cases, the cough may be accompanied by blood or phlegm that is dark or has a rust-colored tint. If you experience a persistent cough, it’s essential to see a doctor as soon as possible to rule out lung cancer or other potential causes.

Chest Pain That Is Persistent or Worsening

Another common symptom of lung cancer is chest pain that is persistent or worsening. This may feel like a sharp pain when you breathe in, or a dull ache that seems to linger. The pain may also be felt in your shoulder, back, or arm.

While chest pain can be a sign of many different conditions, it’s essential to see a doctor if you experience persistent chest pain, especially if it is accompanied by other red flag symptoms of lung cancer.

Shortness of Breath That Is Unexplained or Worsening

Shortness of breath may be a sign of lung cancer, especially if it is unexplained or worsening over time. This may cause you to feel like you are not getting enough air, or that you cannot catch your breath.

In some cases, you may experience wheezing or a whistling sound when you breathe. While shortness of breath can be caused by many different factors, it’s important to see a doctor if you experience unexplained or worsening shortness of breath, particularly if it is accompanied by other red flag symptoms of lung cancer.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Sudden, unexplained weight loss can be a sign of many different types of cancer, including lung cancer. If you experience significant weight loss without trying to lose weight, it’s essential to see a doctor.

You should also pay attention to other red flag symptoms of lung cancer, such as persistent cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath, that may indicate the presence of the disease.

Bone Pain That Gets Worse Over Time

Lung cancer can spread to other parts of the body, including the bones. This may cause bone pain that gets worse over time. The pain may be located in your back, hips, or legs, and may be worsening despite treatment for pain.

If you experience persistent bone pain that gets worse over time, it’s essential to see a doctor.

Fatigue That Is Extreme or Unexplained

Extreme fatigue is a common symptom of many different types of cancer, including lung cancer. This may cause you to feel excessively tired or weak, even if you are getting enough rest.

If you experience extreme or unexplained fatigue, it’s important to see a doctor.

Hoarseness That Is Persistent or Worsening

Hoarseness is a common symptom of respiratory infections or allergies, but if it is persistent or worsening, it may be a red flag for lung cancer. This may cause your voice to sound raspy or strained, or you may have difficulty speaking.

If you experience persistent hoarseness, it’s essential to see a doctor.

Swelling or Lumps in the Neck or Face

Lung cancer can spread to the lymph nodes, which may cause swelling or lumps in the neck or face. These lumps may be painless or tender to the touch. If you notice swelling or lumps in your neck or face, it’s important to see a doctor.

Difficulty Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing can be a sign of lung cancer that has spread to the esophagus. This may cause you to feel like food is getting stuck in your throat, or you may have pain when swallowing.

If you experience difficulty swallowing, it’s essential to see a doctor.

Finger Clubbing

Finger clubbing is a rare but significant symptom of lung cancer. This may cause your fingers and toes to become wider and rounder than normal, and the nails may start to curve around your fingertips.

Finger clubbing is caused by the lack of oxygen in the blood, which can be a sign of lung cancer. If you notice any changes in the shape of your fingers or toes, it’s essential to see a doctor.

Conclusion

Lung cancer is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition. While many of the symptoms of lung cancer can be caused by other factors, it’s important to be aware of the red flag symptoms that may indicate the presence of the disease.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to see a doctor as soon as possible to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.