Think about lung cancer symptoms and you'll be forgiven for imagining hacking coughs and shortness of breath, but there is one telltale sign that is a lot less obvious. However, keeping an eye out for it could give you an early tip-off of the disease and greatly improve your chances of surviving it.
According to the Mirror, lung cancer can spread quicker than other forms of the disease with nearly 40,000 people being diagnosed every year in the UK. And often signs don't turn up until after the cells have spread through the body.
But there is a way of getting that early warning of a developing problem, and it's as simple as putting your fingernails together. Here's what to do...
Press your fingernails together and see of you can see a tiny diamond-shaped window of light. If you can't see this gap, it could be a sign you have finger clubbing - when the ends of your fingers swell up - and this could be a sign of lung cancer.
The condition happens in stages, starting at the base of the nail, which becomes soft. Then the skin next to the nail bed become shiny, after which the nails begin to curve more than normal when looked at from the side. Finally, the fingers may get larger and swell due to fluid collecting in the soft tissues of the fingers.
While not having this diamond-shaped gap between fingernails doesn't automatically mean you have lung cancer, there is a possibility it's a symptom. So, the best course of action is to speak to your doctor if you spot it.
One lung cancer patient Brian Gemmell, whose only symptom of the disease was finger clubbing, said: "Go and see your doctor If you’ve got anything that you’re concerned about – that’s what a GP is for. Go as soon as you can.’"
Early detection can help you get treatment earlier, with GP Dr Helen Piercy advising: "If you notice any signs or symptoms that concern you, see your GP. First phone for an appointment. You will be assessed. You will be invited in, if you need to be seen face-to-face. Don’t be afraid. Pick up the phone."
Lung cancer symptoms vary from person to person. Some people have numerous symptoms and others have none. These signs don't always mean you have lung cancer, but it's best to consult your GP if you have any of the follow concerns.
Lung cancer symptoms
A persistent cough that lasts three weeks or more
Breathlessness
Wheezing
Frequent chest infections
A cough that changes or gets worse
Chest and/or shoulder pain
Coughing up blood or blood in your phlegm
Unexplained fatigue or lack of energy
Hoarseness
Swelling in the face or neck.
