Simple Cough Could Be A Warning Symptom Of The Deadly Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is among the most common yet severe types of cancer in the modern world. According to official data, approximately 47,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with lung cancer every year.

The deadly ailment is characterized by the relentless growth of abnormal cells in either one or both lungs. These anomalous cells do not function like normal lung cells, and they fail to become healthy lung tissue. The abnormal cells form a tumor in one or both lungs. Cancer growth can start in any area of the lungs or airways.

Lung cancer oftentimes does not cause clear symptoms during the early stages. As it spreads throughout the lungs or other parts of the body, however, people may start noticing some signs, particularly with their cough.

Detecting Cough Signals

The National Health Service points out several warning signs that may indicate the development of lung cancer. Foremost among these is a cough that does not abate after two to three weeks.

Another warning sign is an enduring cough that worsens as each day or week passes by. Coughing up blood is another indication that the deadly disease may already be spreading. Feeling pain or ache when coughing or breathing is also a warning sign that tells you to consult with a doctor immediately.

Non-Cough Signals

Other symptoms of lung cancer include constant, persistent breathlessness and tiredness or fatigue, loss of appetite, and chest infections that keep coming back. If you have these symptoms, you need to immediately schedule an appointment with your doctor.

Having these symptoms may not automatically mean you have cancer, as there are many other ailments with similar symptoms. Nevertheless, you should not delay seeing the doctor as treatment methods sometimes hugely depend on early detection. Besides, it is highly likely you will continue to worry about the symptoms until such time the doctor tells you what they are.

Quit Smoking

The health body also strongly recommends you should quit smoking if you have this habit or if you do not, to avoid smoking at all costs. Cancer Research UK, a charitable organization, says that the most significant cause of lung cancer in the UK is smoking tobacco. According to their data, seven out of ten lung cancer cases were caused by smoking.

You also need to avoid inhaling other people’s smoke. Also known as secondhand smoke, it could also cause the development of lung cancer.