Lung cancer is the leading cause of death in the country. As per the pictures and diagnosis of lung cancer, smoking is the main cause behind the rising mortality due to lung cancer. However, air pollution, exposure to harmful chemicals, and genetic factors are some other causes that lead to lung cancer. In a majority of lung cancer cases, as high as 25% of cases, the symptoms do not occur until cancer has spread. An early detection of lung cancer raises the effectiveness of medications and consequently higher chances of recovery.

Signs and symptoms of lung cancer
Primarily, the 3 signs of lung cancer include breathing issues, a persistent cough depending on the part affected by cancer, and infections. Like in other types of cancers, body fatigue and appetite loss are also observed. Let’s look at the 3 signs of lung cancer in detail.

• Cough and blood in cough: The presence of a persistent and intense cough is one of the 3 signs of lung cancer and is a very common phenomenon. In lung cancer patients, cough can occur due to inflammation in the lung tissue or due to the accumulation of body fluid in the lungs. If blood is coming with a cough or the sputum is dark in color, you must consult a doctor to understand the source of the blood (lungs or upper respiratory tract). Moreover, a change in sputum volume may also be observed.
• Difficulty in breathing: Shortness of breath (dyspnea) and wheezing are some early symptoms of lung cancer. Another sign is the presence of a harsh sound called stridor, with breathing. In lung cancer patients, breathing is very uncomfortable, and it can happen due to obstruction of the airways, bacterial infection of the lungs, and fluid deposition in the lungs.
• Recurring infections: One of the 3 signs of lung cancer, a weak immunity due to this disease makes patients more vulnerable to bacterial infections. According to a research study, 50-70% of lung cancer patients frequently develop lung bacterial diseases such as pneumonia and bronchitis. Moreover, the aggressive treatment prescribed also weakens the immune system of the patient.

An early detection of the symptoms of lung cancer is the key to effective and successful treatment of the disease and it can save the life of the affected person. So, stay alert, don’t ignore the symptoms, and go to a doctor before it’s too late.