What are the signs and symptoms of lung cancer?
Signs and symptoms can help describe a medical issue. A sign is usually something that can be identified and measured, such a fever or pulse. A symptom is something that only you can identify and describe, such as pain or fatigue. Below you will find a few symptoms that people with lung cancer may experience; although some people may not have these signs or symptoms and the cancer may be noticed on an imaging test, such as a chest x-ray or CT scan that was ordered for another reason.
Talk to your healthcare team if you are experiencing any of these issues. It helps to track how long/often you’re experiencing these symptoms
Having a cough that gets worse or doesn’t go away may be a symptom of lung cancer. This may also include coughing up phlegm, mucus, or blood.
A lack of energy or feeling extremely tired may be a symptom of lung cancer.
People with lung cancer may experience infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, that don’t go away or keep coming back. Infections may also cause fever.
A symptom of lung cancer may include a sore throat and/or hoarse voice. You may also experience respiratory issues, such as shortness of breath, pain while breathing and/or a new onset of wheezing.
You may experience ongoing chest pain that gets worse with coughing, deep breathing or laughing. Bone pain, such as in the back or hips, is also a potential symptom.
You may have a loss of appetite and/or unexplained or unintentional weight loss.
Lung cancer may cause jaundice, which is when the skin and/or whites of the eyes turn yellow because of a high level of bilirubin (fluid secreted by the liver).
People with lung cancer may notice swelling of the lymph nodes, such as those in the neck or above the collarbone. You may also notice swelling of the neck or face.
If lung cancer spreads to other parts of the body, you may also experience additional symptoms, such as trouble swallowing, slurred speech, lightheadedness, headache, confusion, trouble walking, lack of coordination, limb or muscle weakness, balance issues, a burning or prickling feeling, loss of bowel and bladder control, enlarged chest veins, and/or seizures. You can also track these symptoms on the Symptom Tracker.
