Cancer Network | CALL 877-715-HOPE

Lung Cancer Symptoms

image of oncologist physician talking with a paitient.

Many people don’t experience symptoms in the early stages of lung cancer. Unfortunately, once symptoms begin, lung cancer has usually progressed to an advanced stage. That’s why early detection is critical to getting effective treatment.

Once it has progressed, the cancerous cells take up a large amount of space in the lungs which can cause symptoms, such as:

  • Chest pain
  • Persistent coughing that does not improve within a few weeks
  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing

Many of these symptoms can be confused with an upper respiratory infection. However, if they continue for a long time, it’s important to seek medical attention.

As the cancerous cells spread, you may experience additional symptoms, including:

  • Chronic fatigue
  • Coughing up blood
  • Weight loss

Prevention

The best way to prevent lung cancer is to quit smoking. We offer a free, six-week program to help you stop smoking and significantly reduce your risk for lung cancer.

Learn more about our free smoking cessation classes.

Our Locations

MedStar Bel Air Medical Campus
12 MedStar Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21239

MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center
The Angelos Center for Lung Diseases
9103 Franklin Square Drive
Baltimore, MD 21237

MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital
5601 Loch Raven Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21239

MedStar Harbor Hospital
The Cancer Center
3001 South Hanover St.
Baltimore, MD 21225