Yahoo News Simple 'finger test' at home could show early sign of lung cancer, health experts say
A sign of lung cancer can appear after a simple 'finger test' you can do at home, experts say.
According to Cancer Research, lung cancer claims the lives of around 95 people every day. But spotting warning signs of the disease early may just save your life.
Many people are aware that chest pain, shortness of breath and wheezing are clear red flags that something may be wrong inside our chests. But signs can appear in your hands too, long before other, more typical symptoms start to arise, reports the Mirror. Here is a guide on what to look out for.
How to check for early signs of lung cancer in your hands
The first course of action is to simply press your fingernails together. When doing so, can you notice a small, diamond-shaped tunnel of light? If not, this may be a sign that your fingers are swelling up - a symptom seen among 35% of those with non-small cell lung cancer, according to the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation.
This is the most common variation of the disease and, like most cancers, it triggers the generation of abnormal cells that can reproduce frighteningly fast. Despite this, any associated finger swelling generally happens in far more gradual stages. Usually, it will start at the base of the fingernail before expanding, causing the nails to curve more than normal.
Of course, finger swelling can be a symptom of various other conditions, including ingrown nails and infections like paronychia. But seeking medical advice is usually the best route to take when it comes to unexplained changes in the body.
Symptoms of lung cancer to be aware of
Coughs that last for longer than three weeks and may even get worse over time
Recurring chest infections
Pains when breathing or coughing
Fatigue and tiredness
Unexplained weight loss and a lack of hunger
Coughing up blood
Feeling out of breath quite frequently
Other unusual symptoms of lung cancer
Difficulty swallowing
Swelling in the neck or face
Chest and shoulder pain
A hoarse voice
The NHS says: "Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious types of cancer. More than 43,000 people are diagnosed with the condition every year in the UK.
"There are usually no signs or symptoms in the early stages of lung cancer, but many people with the condition eventually develop symptoms including a persistent cough, coughing up blood, persistent breathlessness, unexplained tiredness and weight loss, an ache or pain when breathing or coughing. You should see a GP if you have these symptoms."
More information can be found on the NHS website here.
