Lung cancer is a formidable disease that can strike anyone, regardless of their smoking history. While chest pain is the most recognized symptom, there are many other, often overlooked, signs that could indicate the presence of lung cancer. In Australia, lung cancer was the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer in 2013, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming years.
Alarmingly, up to 20% of lung cancer deaths occur in individuals who have never smoked. So, what causes nonsmokers to develop lung cancer? Factors such as air pollution, secondhand smoke, and exposure to environmental hazards like asbestos can all contribute. Whether you’ve never smoked or have been a smoker, it’s crucial to be aware of these lesser-known symptoms. While these signs can result from various conditions, it’s always safer to discuss them with your doctor.
1. A Lingering Cough: When a Cough Won’t Go Away
One of the most common and persistent symptoms of lung cancer is a lingering cough. “The majority of people with lung cancer have a cough, occasionally with blood,” notes Dr. McKenna. Even if your cough is dry and doesn’t produce mucus, if it lasts for more than a month, it’s essential to get it checked out. A persistent cough might seem harmless, but it could be the first warning sign of something much more serious.
2. Chronic Infections
Frequent lung infections, such as chronic bronchitis, can also serve as a red flag for lung cancer. While viruses typically cause these infections, if you find yourself repeatedly getting sick and every illness seems to settle in your chest, it could be an early indication of lung cancer. Chronic infections weaken your lungs, making it harder for them to fend off serious diseases like cancer.
3. Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing weight without making significant changes to your diet or exercise routine can be concerning. Lung cancer, like many other cancers, can cause your body to produce proteins that trigger weight loss. This unintentional weight loss may also be accompanied by a decrease in appetite, making it vital to monitor any unexplained changes in your body. If you’re shedding pounds without trying, it’s time to take notice and consult a healthcare provider.
4. Bone Pain
If lung cancer metastasizes to other parts of the body, it may cause deep, aching pain in the bones or joints. The back and hips are particularly common areas for this type of pain. However, it’s important to remember that bone pain can also stem from other conditions, such as a vitamin D deficiency. If you experience persistent bone pain, especially if it’s unexplained, don’t ignore it—seek medical advice.
5. Swelling in the Neck and Face
Swelling in the neck and face can occur when a lung tumor presses against the superior vena cava—a large vein that carries blood from the head and arms to the heart. This pressure can also lead to puffiness in the arms and upper chest, causing noticeable discomfort and swelling. If you observe any unusual swelling in these areas, it’s crucial to investigate further with your doctor.
6. Overwhelming Fatigue
Fatigue related to lung cancer is not just about feeling tired—it’s a profound sense of exhaustion that doesn’t go away with rest. “It’s feeling so worn out that you can’t wait to climb into bed,” explains Dr. Jacoub. This level of fatigue can severely impact your daily life, making it difficult to perform even simple tasks. If you’re experiencing this kind of debilitating fatigue regularly, it’s worth discussing with your healthcare provider.
7. Muscle Weakness
Lung cancer doesn’t only affect your organs; it can also weaken your muscles. One of the first signs may be difficulty getting out of a chair due to weakness in the hips. This weakness can also extend to the shoulders, arms, and legs, making everyday tasks increasingly challenging. Muscle weakness might be easy to overlook, but it’s a symptom that warrants attention, especially if it persists without a clear cause.
8. Elevated Calcium Levels
Certain types of lung cancer can disrupt the balance of minerals in your body by producing hormone-like substances. This can lead to elevated calcium levels in the bloodstream, a condition known as hypercalcemia. While high calcium levels might be detected through a blood test, the symptoms—frequent urination, excessive thirst, constipation, nausea, belly pain, and dizziness—can often serve as an early warning. If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to get your calcium levels checked and explore the underlying cause.
Don’t Ignore the Signs
Lung cancer can develop silently, with symptoms that are easy to dismiss as minor ailments. However, being aware of the signs—such as a persistent cough, chronic infections, unexplained weight loss, bone pain, swelling, fatigue, muscle weakness, and high calcium levels—can make a significant difference in early detection and treatment. If you experience any combination of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical advice promptly.
Conclusion
Lung cancer is a serious disease that doesn’t always present with obvious symptoms, especially in its early stages. Whether you’re a smoker or not, being vigilant about the signs of lung cancer is crucial. Early detection can lead to more effective treatment and a better prognosis. Don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider if you notice any concerning symptoms. Prioritizing your health could be the key to catching lung cancer before it progresses.
