Lung Cancer Symptoms & Warning Signs

Dr. Hanson explains some of the signs and symptoms of lung cancer, which include changes in cough, blood in sputum, weight change, or voice change.

David S. Hanson, MD, FACP: Let us talk for a minute about the signs and symptoms of lung cancer. Lung cancer is a very common illness and it is oftentimes seen in people who abuse cigarettes or other forms of tobacco.

So when a person has a new cough, blood in their sputum, unexplained weight loss, or changed in their voice, they need to inform the patient of this occurrence and the reason for that is, is that lung cancer is a very difficult disease to screen for.

Well, there may be data that certain patients can benefit from Annual CAT scan screening, the majority of patients will develop their cancer in between even a yearly screening and some new symptoms mandate an evaluation.

The other thing that is important to remember is that the symptoms may not seem to be related to your lungs. You may suddenly experience a lack of appetite, unexplained weight loss, new pain or swelling in an area that you do not associate with your chest.

So if you have a change in your physical health and are a smoker, in particular, you should seek an evaluation with a physician.

David S. Hanson, MD practices oncology and internal medicine in Baton Rouge and Zachary, Louisiana. Dr. Hanson graduated with an MD, 27 years ago.