Lung Cancer Symptoms, Symptoms of Lung Cancer

December 27, 2004 (Press Release) -- Lung Cancer Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of lung cancer may take years to appear and are often confused with symptoms of less serious conditions. Signs and symptoms may not appear until the disease reaches an advanced stage.

Chest Signs & Symptoms

Smoker’s cough that persists or becomes intense

Non-smoker's cough that persists for more than two weeks

Persistent chest, shoulder, or back pain unrelated to pain from coughing

Change in color of sputum

Increase in volume of sputum

Blood in sputum

Wheezing

Recurrent pneumonia or bronchitis


Other signs and symptoms of lung cancer may not be respiratory in nature

Fatigue

Loss of appetite

Headache, bone pain, aching joints

Bone fractures not related to accidental injury

Neurologic symptoms (e.g., unsteady gait and/or episodic memory loss)

Neck and facial swelling

Unexplained weight loss


There also may be signs and symptoms caused by the spread of lung cancer to other parts of the body. Depending on which organs are affected, these can include headaches, general weakness, pain, bone fractures, bleeding, or blood clots. Anyone experiencing these signs or symptoms should consult a physician immediately.

http://www.lungcancer.org/