Symptoms of lung cancer tend to develop very late, which means it can be difficult to know if you are at risk.
However, there are some “surprising” signs to look out for that may indicate a lung tumor.
Lung cancer is one of the most dangerous types of cancer. Many people do not realize that they have lung cancer until they reach an advanced stage of the disease. Therefore, attention must be paid to some signs that may help early diagnosis, which enhances the possibility of treatment.
Smoking is known to be the most common cause of lung cancer, as more than 70% of all cases are related to smoking.
And the NHS warned that there were absolutely no signs of lung cancer at first. As the tumor progresses and spreads to other parts of the body, the patient may begin to notice some warning signs.
Some of the more common symptoms include a persistent cough, feeling short of breath, and lack of energy.
However, there are some “surprising” signs we shouldn’t ignore, including back pain and swollen fingertips, according to the WebMD medical website:
- Stomach Problems:
She added that between 10% and 20% of all lung cancer patients develop gastrointestinal symptoms. This is caused by hypercalcemia, in which the body retains too much calcium.
Most people develop stomach pain, nausea and constipation.
The person also may not feel an urge to eat or drink, and you may have unexplained contractions.
- Back Ache:
Certain types of lung cancer, known as a Pancoast tumor, can spread to different parts of the body, including the back.
The patient may develop pain or unexplained pain in the back, shoulder, or upper arm.
- Balance Problems:
Some lung cancer patients find that their immune system attacks the nervous system, which affects how muscles work.
Consequently, the patient may feel unusually dizzy, or struggle to maintain balance.
- Drooping Eyelid:
Pancoast tumors can also affect the nerves of the eye, as well as half of the face.
People may develop an unusually drooping eyelid or small pupil in one eye.
- Swollen fingertips:
Some lung cancers produce hormone-like chemicals, which can push excess fluid into the extremities.
Fingers may appear thicker than usual, and nails may appear shinier
