There are usually no signs or symptoms of lung cancer in the early stages. Symptoms develop as the condition progresses.
The main symptoms of lung cancer include:
- a cough that does not go away after 3 weeks
- a long-standing cough that gets worse
- chest infections that keep coming back
- coughing up blood
- an ache or pain when breathing or coughing
- persistent breathlessness
- persistent tiredness or lack of energy
- loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
Less common symptoms of lung cancer include:
- changes in the appearance of your fingers, such as becoming more curved or their ends becoming larger (this is known as finger clubbing)
- difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or pain when swallowing
- wheezing
- a hoarse voice
- swelling of your face or neck
- persistent chest or shoulder pain
See a GP if you have any of the main symptoms of lung cancer or any of the less common symptoms.
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Page last reviewed: 01 November 2022
Next review due: 01 November 2025