Lung Cancer Symptoms

Lung cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow and multiply out of control in the lung tissues, bronchus or windpipe, invading and destroying healthy tissue. Eventually, these abnormal cells may form a tumor.

Many people with lung cancer don’t detect early symptoms. In the United States, about 27% of people are diagnosed at an early stage of the disease. When detected early at a localized stage (before cancer has spread), about 64% of patients live longer than five years after diagnosis.

When not detected until a late stage, the percentage of patients who live longer than five years after diagnosis decreases to 9%.  This is a reason why lung cancer screening for early detection is important for high-risk individuals.

As the disease progresses or metastasizes (spreads), symptoms may become more noticeable. You may experience symptoms very similar to other, more common diseases. If you notice a new or persistent symptom, it is important to identify the root cause.

Your physician may perform one or more imaging tests and a biopsy to confirm a diagnosis. The early detection of lung cancer allows for timely intervention and treatment, significantly improving patient outcomes.

Lung Cancer Menu

General Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Many symptoms of lung cancer are general and can be mistaken for other illnesses. See your doctor if you experience any new, persistent or unexplained symptoms such as:

 

  • A cough that persists or gets worse over time
  • Appetite loss
  • Constant chest or shoulder pain
  • Coughing up blood
  • Frequent lung infections
  • Hoarseness
  • Persistent fatigue
  • Shortness of breath or wheezing
  • Swelling in the face or neck
  • Unexplained weight loss

 

Any of these symptoms may instead be caused by something other than cancer. The only way to know for sure what is causing a particular symptom is to see your doctor.

Monitor Your Symptoms at Home

Often, people with lung cancer are misdiagnosed with a cold, pneumonia or allergies because those conditions exhibit many of the same symptoms as lung cancer. If you think something else may be causing your symptoms, we recommend you get a second opinion.

You know your body — what is normal and what is not. It is important to stay vigilant about any ongoing, recurring or worsening symptoms. Consulting your physician when symptoms begin or worsen can lead to an earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.

Keep a record of your symptoms, how often they occur and if they are getting better or worse with time. If something feels “off” or a change from your normal experience, schedule an appointment  with your health care provider as soon as possible.

 

Specialty Lung Cancer Clinic

Specialty Lung Cancer Clinic

The Specialty Lung Cancer Clinic offers lung cancer patients expedited evaluation and disease management. Our medical, surgical and radiation oncologists routinely consult and focus on the individual patient. We develop personalized care plans that include the most innovative treatments to improve outcomes.

About the Clinic
Lung Cancer Diagnosis
Find information about the tests used to accurately diagnose and stage lung cancer.
Lung Cancer Treatments

Find details about the advanced treatment options for lung cancer, tailored to your condition and lifestyle.

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