Lung cancer can be difficult to detect initially due to its lack of noticeable signs early on. However, if a type of lung cancer is detected—such as Nsclc non small cell lung carcinoma—then there are multiple different types of treatment options and plans available like Ros1 lung cancer treatment, Egfr Exon 20 treatment, Nivolumab, and other small cell lung cancer treatments. Outside of lung cancer, similar symptoms—coughing up blood, for instance—can be associated with different lung diseases. Various treatment options are also available for such diseases. One example of this is Arikayce for Ntm lung disease. Nevertheless, before any of these treatment plans can be pursued, it’s important to know what’s troubling your lungs. Here are 4 early warning signs of lung cancer to look out for:

1. Hemoptysis

Coughing up blood—also known as hemoptysis—is very serious and can be an early warning sign of lung cancer. A likewise sign is coughing up rust-colored sputum—a thick mucus that is created in the lungs—and should also be addressed immediately. Whether or not the underlying cause is lung cancer, it’s crucial to seek the advice of a medical professional as soon as possible, since hemoptysis is concerning regardless.

2. Voice hoarseness

While having a hoarse voice can be a result of many different ailments, illnesses, and conditions—including respiratory related troubles such as laryngitis—it can also be an early warning sign of lung cancer. If you find that you or your loved one is experiencing a persistent hoarse voice that isn’t improving even after a few weeks, lung cancer might be the root cause. As such, it’s important to consult with a medical professional.

3. Clubbing

Clubbing of the fingers—also known as the enlargement of the fingertips and the curve of nails around the fingertips—can be indicative of lung conditions such as lung cancer. In fact, finger clubbing is identified in 35% of individuals who have non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and in 4% of those who have small cell lung cancer. Soft nail beds surrounded by shiny skin—a trait associated with finger clubbing—may help point toward an early lung cancer diagnosis.

4. Recurring cough

A chronic cough is not the most surprising sign of lung cancer. While coughing in general can result from something as mundane as a cold, a cough that only grows worse over time or refuses to go away can be a cause for larger concern. Since coughing allows the lungs to clear the airway of harmful objects and potential germs, something serious could be occurring if a cough sticks around for weeks or months. Furthermore, a recurring cough that’s associated with hemoptysis can indicate an even bigger issue. 

While experiencing one of these symptoms isn’t a definite sign of lung cancer, it can be indicative of a serious issue and should therefore be properly addressed with medical attention. Overall, it’s important to look out for these signs if you believe that you or your loved one may have lung cancer, and to seek professional advice if you notice anything extremely out of the ordinary.