Lung cancer is a malignant tumor that begins in the cells of the lungs. Lung cancer usually begins in the cells that line the air passages. However, it can also begin in other parts of the lung, such as the bronchioles or alveoli.

It is important to know the early warning signs of lung cancer so that you can catch the disease early and increase your chance of survival. Here are some of the most common early warning signs of lung cancer:.

1. Persistent Cough

A chronic cough that lasts for several weeks or more is a common early warning sign of lung cancer. This cough may be dry or produce phlegm, and it may worsen over time.

2. Shortness of Breath

If you find that you are having difficulty breathing, or if you feel short of breath without any apparent cause, this could be an early warning sign of lung cancer. Shortness of breath may be accompanied by wheezing or chest pain.

3. Chest Pain

Chest pain can be a symptom of lung cancer. This pain may feel sharp or dull, and it may be constant or intermittent. It may also worsen when you take a deep breath or cough.

4. Unexplained Weight Loss

If you are losing weight without trying, this could be an early warning sign of lung cancer. Unexplained weight loss is often a sign that the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

5. Fatigue

If you are feeling excessively tired or weak without any apparent cause, this could be an early warning sign of lung cancer. Fatigue can be a sign that the cancer has spread to other parts of the body and is affecting your overall health.

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6. Hoarseness

If you find that your voice has become hoarse or raspy without any apparent cause, this could be an early warning sign of lung cancer. Hoarseness may be caused by a tumor that is pressing on your vocal cords.

7. Coughing up Blood

Coughing up blood, also known as hemoptysis, is a common early warning sign of lung cancer. This can be a sign that the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

8. Swelling in the Face or Neck

If you notice swelling in your face or neck, this could be an early warning sign of lung cancer. This swelling may be caused by a tumor that is pressing on the blood vessels or nerves in this area.

9. Change in Color or Shape of Fingernails

If you notice a change in the color or shape of your fingernails, this could be an early warning sign of lung cancer. This change may be caused by a lack of oxygen in the blood due to the cancer.

10. Other Symptoms

Other symptoms of lung cancer may include a loss of appetite, bone pain, headache, or joint pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor right away.

Overall, it is important to be aware of the early warning signs of lung cancer and to talk to your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms. Early detection is key to successful treatment of lung cancer and can increase your chance of survival.