Patient Health International – health information for patients and carers

The symptoms of lung cancer depend on the location and size of the tumour but commonly include respiratory problems. Signs and symptoms of lung cancer may involve any of the following:

persistent cough
persistent chest, shoulder or back pain
change in colour of sputum/blood in sputum
wheezing/shortness of breath
recurrent pneumonia or bronchitis
fatigue
loss of appetite
headache, bone pain, aching joints
neck and facial swelling
unexplained weight loss

Symptoms of more advanced lung cancer may include headaches, general weakness, pain or bone fractures.

Some of these symptoms are similar to those of other common illnesses and may not necessarily be caused by lung cancer. You should consult your doctor if you have any of the above problems.