Early signs of lung cancer often include a persistent cough that doesn't go away or worsens over time, coughing up blood or rust-colored phlegm, and chest pain that intensifies with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing. Shortness of breath, hoarseness, unexplained weight loss, and loss of appetite are also common early indicators. Recurrent lung infections like bronchitis or pneumonia that don't resolve, along with new-onset wheezing or fatigue, may signal the disease in its initial stages.

Less Common Early Signs

• Finger clubbing, where fingertips change shape or enlarge.

• Difficulty swallowing or swelling in the face/neck.

• Persistent tiredness without clear cause.

Lung cancer frequently shows no symptoms early on, so these signs warrant prompt medical evaluation, especially for smokers or those with exposure risks. Early detection improves outcomes through screening and treatment.