Common symptoms of lung cancer

Lung cancer may present with a persistent or changing cough, breathlessness, chest discomfort, coughing up blood, a hoarse voice, fatigue or unexplained weight loss. Repeated chest infections, reduced appetite or shoulder pain can also occur. A person may have only some of these changes, and early lung cancer may cause no obvious symptoms.

These symptoms are not specific to cancer and can arise from infections, asthma, chronic lung disease, reflux or other conditions. Lung cancer can produce symptoms when a tumour irritates or narrows an airway, affects tissue around the lung, or influences the body more broadly. If it spreads, the symptoms depend on the affected area; for example, brain involvement may cause a new persistent headache, weakness, balance trouble, confusion or a seizure.

Book a medical appointment if a cough is not settling, an existing cough has clearly changed, or breathlessness, hoarseness, chest discomfort, fatigue, appetite loss or weight loss is unexplained. Mention any blood in phlegm even if it was a small amount. Bring details of when each change began, whether it is progressing, recent infections, smoking or occupational exposure history, and medicines you use. The clinician may examine you and decide whether chest imaging or other tests are appropriate.

Seek urgent medical assessment if you cough up blood. Call emergency services for a large amount of blood, severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness, blue or grey lips, crushing chest pain, fainting, or sudden confusion. A first seizure, sudden weakness on one side, new difficulty speaking or a sudden severe headache also requires emergency care. Urgency comes from the symptom itself and the risk of breathing, bleeding or neurological compromise, regardless of its cause.

Consider asking what could explain the symptom pattern, which tests are needed, how and when results will be shared, and what change should trigger an earlier review. If lung cancer is diagnosed, ask about its type and extent, whether tumour testing could guide treatment, and which options fit your health and priorities. Request a clear contact route for new breathing problems, pain, coughing up blood or treatment side effects.