Q. What are the most common symptoms of lung cancer? Which symptoms of lung cancer is present in majority of patients?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

The symptoms of lung cancer can vary widely depending on the type of lung cancer, its stage, and individual factors. However, there are several common symptoms that are often associated with lung cancer. It's important to note that not all individuals with lung cancer will experience all of these symptoms, and some symptoms can be caused by other conditions as well. The presence of symptoms does not necessarily indicate the presence of lung cancer.

Common symptoms of lung cancer include:

Persistent Cough: A chronic cough that doesn't go away or worsens over time is a common symptom. It might produce blood or rust-colored sputum.

Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, often due to the tumor obstructing the airways or affecting lung function.

Chest Pain: Persistent chest pain, discomfort, or pressure that may worsen with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing.

Hoarseness: Changes in the voice, such as hoarseness, can occur if the tumor affects the nerves controlling the vocal cords.

Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant and unintended weight loss can be a sign of advanced cancer.

Fatigue: Persistent fatigue and weakness that is not relieved by rest.

Wheezing: A high-pitched whistling sound when breathing, caused by airways narrowing due to tumor growth.

Loss of Appetite: A decreased desire to eat or an unexplained loss of appetite.

Frequent Infections: Repeated respiratory infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

Bone Pain: If the cancer spreads to the bones, it can cause bone pain or fractures.

Headache: If the cancer spreads to the brain, it might cause headaches, seizures, or neurological symptoms.