Most people may feel that a diagnosis of lung cancer is a death sentence. Well, this thought is reasonable because lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths among women and men.
Over 1.3 million people die of lung cancer every year. However, it is important to understand that just like any other type of cancer, if diagnosed early enough, lung cancer is treatable and, in most cases, curable.
In its early stages, this cancer may not present any obvious signs and symptoms. A number of lung cancer diagnoses are made after the cancer has advanced, making treatment quite complicated.
As such, pay attention to the following warning signs, some of which will surprise you. This will help you to bring to your doctor’s attention any suspicious symptoms. Early screening will help in the treatment of the disease.
3Unexplained Fatigue
A debilitating fatigue, with no clear cause, may be an early sign of lung cancer. It may feel just like the common exhaustion you feel whenever you have a flu or cold. However, if the fatigue is clearly persistent, it could be an indication of lung cancer. Studies have shown that lung cancer tumors release substances into your blood stream, which may affect oxygen levels, adrenal gland function, and the health of your red blood cell as well as other energy production aspects. Before seeing your doctor, explore and work out on other causes of fatigue including overwork, insomnia and overexertion. If the fatigue persists, let your doctor know your concern for him to determine the tests to carry out. Let him know that what you feel has no explainable cause.