Lung cancer symptoms aren't always easy to spot. They can seem like something less serious or feel like an everyday illness. However, lung cancer rates in the North West are 25% higher than the rest of England. So, it’s important to know what to look out for.
A cough lasting more than 3 weeks
Breathlessness that doesn't go away
Blood when coughing
Ongoing tiredness or low energy
If you do have any of these symptoms, it could still be nothing. But it's always best to get checked by a GP to make sure.
Lung cancer is found in one or both of your lungs. How big the cancer is, if it's spread and your general health will all play a part in how serious it is.
There are two main types, with different treatments for each.
Non-small-cell lung cancer: the most common type, making up more than 80% of cases.
Small-cell-lung cancer: a less common type that usually spreads faster than non-small-cell lung cancer.
You're also more likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer if you smoke and are aged 75 or over.
Although it's rare people younger than 40 can still develop it, as can people who have never smoked.
Along with the most common symptoms, you should also look out for:
There are two main types, with different treatments for each.
Aches or pains when breathing or coughing
Loss of appetite or losing weight without trying to
There are also less common symptoms, such as
Changes in the appearance of your fingers
Difficulty swallowing
Wheezing
A hoarse voice
Swelling of the face or neck
Persistent chest or shoulder pain
Anyone can develop lung cancer. But you are more likely to if you:
Smoke
Inhale passive smoke
Have been exposed to asbestos, radon gas, chemicals while at work or air pollution
Have a family history of lung cancer
If you are between 55 and 74 and have ever smoked, you may be offered a free NHS lung cancer screening appointment that could detect cancer at an earlier stage.
It's important you attend this even if you have no symptoms as an early diagnosis can make a big difference. So, the sooner you act, the better the outcome.
