Frequent chest pain? 5 warning signs of lung cancer that could save your life

In the United States alone, 1 in 14 people will be diagnosed with lung cancer in their lifetime. It is one of the most common and deadly cancers, amounting to more deaths than breast, prostate and colon cancer combined.

Did you know that, 27% of people that have died of cancer would have died of lung cancer specifically?

Furthermore, 90% of lung cancer victims smoke, have a history of smoking, or have been surrounded by those who do (secondhand smoking). If you want to protect yourself and see this startling statistic decrease you should learn the common symptoms of lung cancer.

When it comes to cancer, the time of detection can be one of the most influential factors, so it is extremely important that you get to know your body. Understanding how your body functions can help you recognize symptoms and assist you in catching lung cancer early on.

The list below outlines symptoms that can help you detect the early signs of lung cancer and protect your future..

1. Persistent Cough

Do not automatically panic if you have a cough – many common colds make us cough! However pay attention to a bad cough if you have no other signs of being sick. Furthermore if that cough contains abnormal amounts of mucus or contains any blood, it would be wise to consult a physician.

2. Respiratory Problems or Chest Pain

If you experience a sudden shortness of breath without physical exertion, it is wise to go see your family doctor as soon as you can. As well, a wheezing sound or any chest pain when inhaling or exhaling can be an indication that something is not right; excluding those of you who already suffer from asthma or allergic reactions. In any case, abnormal respiratory behaviour is always cause to visit your family doctor.

3. Recurring Chest Infections

If you find that you are contracting respiratory infections more than you have in the past, for example recurring bronchitis or pneumonia, your body may be telling you something! Getting sick too often or taking too long to recover could be a sign that lung cancer is forming. Keep in mind that detecting lung cancer in earlier stages can make a significant difference in how easy it is to treat.

4. Hoarse or Changing Voice

A sudden change in your voice is also reason to visit the doctor. Hoarseness or other changes in your voice could be evidence that something, possibly a tumor, could be obstructing your trachea or lungs.

5. Weight loss and/or Reduced Appetite

Although this particular symptom may seem non-threatening alone, if it is present along with one or more of the others, then it requires your attention. Drastic weight loss or a reduced appetite can indicate the presence of cancer as well as many other damaging diseases and thus it should not be ignored!

Learning about your body’s regular behavior makes it extremely easy for you to notice the abnormal signs of lung cancer. Don’t be afraid to ask your physician for guidance and always make sure that you are in tune with your body!

Article republished with permission: Article originally posted on HealthyHolisticLiving.com

About the Author

Michelle Toole is the founder and head editor of Healthy Holistic Living. This roll spawned from a health crisis over 14 years ago. Michelle went from marathon runner to bed ridden in what felt like overnight. Out of crisis came change, which at the time felt life ending but in retrospect was life fulfilling. Through this experience came the creation of healthy-holistic-living.com a site designed to share her experience and passion for holistic living and to support others who desire to create a shift in their lives. Learn all about her life’s inspiration and journey to health and wellness.