Lung cancer is a severe disease that can lead to fatal outcomes if not detected and treated early. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available, including medications such as Alecensa, Venclexta, Alectinib, Zepzelca, and the combination of OPDIVO (nivolumab) with YERVOY (ipilimumab). Recognizing the early warning signs of lung cancer can facilitate early diagnosis and treatment, improving the chances of survival. Here are ten warning signs of lung cancer that you should not ignore:

1. Persistent cough

A persistent cough that lasts more than two weeks and shows no signs of improvement despite treatment should be a cause for concern. If the cough is accompanied by blood or rust-colored sputum, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

2. Shortness of breath

If you find yourself gasping for air after performing activities that didn’t previously cause breathlessness, this could be a sign of lung cancer. Shortness of breath can occur if a tumor is blocking the airway or if there is fluid buildup in the chest due to cancer.

3. Chest pain

Experiencing pain in the chest, shoulders, or back can be a symptom of lung cancer. The pain may intensify during deep breathing, coughing, or laughing.

4. Hoarseness

A change in the voice or hoarseness that persists for more than two weeks can be an early warning sign of lung cancer. This can occur if a tumor affects the nerve that controls the larynx or voice box.

5. Unexplained weight loss

If you’re losing weight without trying, it could be a sign of lung cancer. Cancer cells use up a lot of the body’s energy, leading to weight loss.

6. Frequent lung infections

Frequent lung infections like pneumonia or bronchitis could be a sign of lung cancer. This happens when cancer cells block the airways, making it difficult for the lungs to fight off infections.

7. Fatigue

Feeling unusually tired or weak can be a sign of many cancers, including lung cancer. This happens as the body uses more energy to repair the damage caused by cancer cells.

8. Swelling in the face or neck

Swelling in the face or neck can occur if a tumor is pressing on a vein that carries blood from the head and neck to the heart.

9. Changes in the fingers

In some cases, lung cancer can cause changes in the fingers, such as the fingernails becoming more curved or the fingertips becoming larger. This is known as “clubbing.”

10. Bone pain

Lung cancer can spread to the bones, causing pain, especially in the back or hips.

In conclusion, it’s important to pay attention to these warning signs of lung cancer. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Remember, early detection is key in the fight against lung cancer. With medications like Alecensa, Venclexta, Alectinib, Zepzelca, and the combination of OPDIVO (nivolumab) with YERVOY (ipilimumab), there are effective treatment options available.