Lung cancer is a commonly known condition caused by the growth of cancer cells in the lungs.

It is also one of the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide, and its early detection and diagnosis play a crucial role in a patient’s treatment success. Typically, most lung cancers do not show any symptoms during the early stages, and they usually go undetected until they reach an advanced stage.

However, there are several signs and symptoms that could indicate the presence of lung cancer, including the way you breathe. This article discusses why your breath could be a sign of lung cancer.

Coughing and Shortness of Breath

Coughing and shortness of breath are two of the most commonly reported symptoms of lung cancer. These symptoms occur because the cancer cells block or narrow the airways in the lungs, making it difficult for the patient to breathe.

Typically, these symptoms will worsen over time, making daily activities much more difficult. If you are experiencing persistent coughing and shortness of breath, it is essential to seek medical attention to determine the root cause of these symptoms.

Chest Pain and Wheezing

Chest pain and wheezing are also common symptoms of lung cancer. Chest pain usually occurs when lung cancer has spread to the chest wall or the lining around the lungs.

It is typically a persistent and sharp pain that worsens during coughing or deep breathing. Wheezing, on the other hand, results from the narrowing of the airways due to the growth of cancer cells in the lungs. It is a high-pitched sound that is typically heard when the patient breathes or exhales.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential that you schedule a doctor’s appointment as soon as possible.

Blood in Sputum

Blood in sputum is a common symptom of lung cancer. This symptom occurs when the cancer cells grow and invade the lung tissue’s blood vessels, causing them to bleed. Typically, the sputum may appear reddish-brown, pink or have flecks of blood in it.

If you experience blood in your sputum, you should seek immediate medical attention as this may indicate a more advanced stage of lung cancer.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss is also a significant symptom of lung cancer, especially during the advanced stages of the disease. Weight loss is typically accompanied by feelings of fatigue, weakness, and lack of appetite.

When lung cancer is present, the body uses energy to fight the disease. Because of this, patients often lose weight despite normal or increased food intake. If you are experiencing unexplained weight loss, it is essential to speak with a healthcare professional.

Halitosis

Halitosis, or bad breath, can also be a sign of lung cancer. The condition occurs because of the carcinogens released from the cancer cells, which give off an odor.

Although bad breath alone is not a sign of lung cancer, it can be an indication of more severe underlying health problems, so it is still essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you have this symptom.

Hoarseness

Hoarseness is also a common symptom of lung cancer that occurs when cancer cells grow and affect the vocal cords. Hoarseness makes the voice sound raspy or breathy and can also cause difficulty speaking loudly or for extended periods.

If you are experiencing persistent hoarseness, you should seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause of this symptom.

Fever

A fever, or an elevated body temperature, can also be a sign of lung cancer. Fever occurs when the immune system tries to fight off cancer cells. Typically, a fever will accompany other symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, or chest pain.

If you have a fever, it is essential to speak with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of this symptom.

Clubbing

Clubbing is a condition where the fingers and toes become enlarged and the tips of the fingers and toes become round and bulge because of inadequate oxygen.

Typically, clubbing occurs in the advanced stages of lung cancer when the lungs are unable to supply enough oxygen to the body. If you notice that your fingers or toes are enlarging or becoming rounded, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Repeated Infection

Repeated infections, such as bronchitis and pneumonia, can be a sign of lung cancer, especially if they occur frequently and do not respond to treatment.

When lung cancer is present, the growth of cancer cells can cause bacteria to grow and accumulate in the lungs, leading to recurrent infections. If you experience repeated bouts of infection, it is essential to speak with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of this symptom.

Difficulty Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, can be a sign of advanced lung cancer.

Typically, dysphagia occurs when cancer cells grow and interfere with the esophagus’s ability to contract and relax, making it difficult to swallow food or liquids. If you experience difficulty swallowing, you should seek immediate medical attention to determine the underlying cause of this symptom.