What are the symptoms of lung cancer?

Some people notice a cough that changes, does not settle, or brings up blood. Others develop shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain that worsens with breathing or coughing, or a Hoarse Voice. Repeated chest infections, reduced appetite, tiredness, or unexplained weight loss can also occur. These symptoms are not specific to lung cancer, and common conditions such as infection, asthma, or reflux can produce similar changes.

Arrange a clinical assessment for a Persistent Cough, coughing blood, or breathlessness that is new or worsening. A clinician may listen to your chest, review smoking or workplace exposures, and arrange imaging or other tests. If cancer is diagnosed, options may include Lung Lobectomy, Chemotherapy, Immunotherapy, Targeted Therapy, or Clinical Trials, depending on the tumour and your health.

Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, coughing a large amount of blood, blue or grey lips, sudden chest pain, fainting, or new confusion. Get prompt advice if breathlessness is rapidly increasing or a chest infection is not improving with the treatment prescribed.

What could be causing my symptoms? Which tests are appropriate? What should I do if breathing worsens? If cancer is found, do tumour tests affect treatment choices?