Lung cancer is one of the most deadly and difficult to detect forms of cancer. If caught early, it is much more likely to be treatable. Knowing the warning signs of lung cancer can help you detect it earlier and increase your chances of successful treatment. One of the most unexpected warning signs of lung cancer is the appearance of your toenails.
Warning Signs of Lung Cancer
The most common signs of lung cancer include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, hoarseness, and shortness of breath. It can also cause fatigue, weight loss, and a decrease in appetite. Other warning signs of lung cancer may include wheezing, recurring infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia, and a swelling of the face and neck.
Toenails as an Early Indicator
Though not as well known as the other signs, changes in your toenails can be an early warning sign of lung cancer. This symptom is known as clubbing, and is characterized by an enlargement of the tips of your toenails, as well as a softening and increased curvature of the nails. This symptom can be caused by other conditions, such as liver disease and inflammatory bowel disease, so further testing may be necessary to determine if it is caused by lung cancer.
Lung cancer is a serious and potentially deadly form of cancer, and it is important to be aware of the warning signs. While most people are familiar with the more common signs, such as a persistent cough and chest pain, they may not be aware of the potential warning sign of changes in their toenails. If you notice any changes in your toenails, it is important to speak to your doctor, who can help determine the cause and provide further treatment if necessary.