Lung cancer is a serious and life-threatening disease that gives several signs in its early stages. If these signs are recognized in time and appropriate medical examinations are carried out, the severity of the disease can be significantly reduced. For this, it is essential that people pay attention to their health and do not take any unusual changes lightly.
Lung Cancer: Early symptoms of lung cancer often appear gradually and sometimes resemble common colds or other mild illnesses. Key symptoms include frequent lung infections, voice changes, persistent cough, bloody phlegm, loss of appetite, weight loss, difficulty breathing, chest and back pain, fatigue, and weakness. Ignoring these signs can be dangerous.
Frequent Lung Infections
Among the early symptoms of lung cancer, the most common problem is recurrent infections. Such individuals often face problems like bronchitis or pneumonia. Frequent infections can lead to swelling in the lymph nodes located around the lungs. Additionally, persistent cough, shortness of breath, and phlegm production can also be observed. Experts state that this sign could be an early warning indicator of a serious lung problem, and therefore, it should not be taken lightly.
Voice Changes
A person suffering from lung cancer may also experience voice changes. This change often occurs due to its effect on the lymph nodes or vocal cords. Hoarseness, a scratchy voice, or a sudden change in pitch can be early symptoms. Often, people mistake this for a change due to general fatigue or a cold, but if it persists for a long time, it is important to consult a doctor immediately.
Persistent Cough
A prominent sign of lung cancer is a persistent cough that lasts for a long time. In the early stages, this cough is dry, but gradually, phlegm with blood or rust-colored sputum may also appear. Often, patients feel the need to clear their throat repeatedly. Experts state that a long-lasting cough can always be a sign of a serious lung problem and should not be ignored.
Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss
Due to lung cancer, a person's appetite decreases. The body does not absorb sufficient nutrients, leading to increased weakness. This results in weight loss. This weight loss is different from general weakness, and continuous weight loss should be taken seriously. In the early stages, this sign can help in identifying the disease.
Difficulty Breathing
As lung cancer progresses, a person begins to experience difficulty breathing. Shortness of breath while running lightly, climbing stairs, or performing normal activities can be signs of this. This condition occurs due to a lack of oxygen in the body and reduced lung function. This problem can appear even in the early stages and should not be ignored.
Chest and Back Pain
Sometimes, in the early stages of lung cancer, persistent pain may be felt in the chest and back. This pain can especially increase when sitting for long periods, sleeping, or performing heavy work. Along with the pain, there is sometimes a feeling of pressure or discomfort. This type of pain is often mistaken for general fatigue or muscle problems, but continuously increasing pain should be taken seriously.
Fatigue and Weakness
Individuals affected by lung cancer often experience fatigue and weakness without any apparent reason. This is due to a lack of energy and nutrient deficiency in the body. Persistent fatigue and weakness can be an early sign of a serious lung problem. If it persists for a long time, immediate medical advice should be sought.
