Lung cancer begins in the tissues of the lungs. According to 2007 information from the American Medical Association, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, and smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. It is responsible for 87 percent of cases. Pollution, radiation, and asbestos exposure also put an individual at risk for developing this life-threatening disease. Most cases of lung cancer do not cause any symptoms until the cancer spreads. According to MayoClinic.com, symptoms of final-stage lung cancer include coughing, weight loss and pain.
Coughing
Coughing is a symptom of final-stage lung cancer. As the disease advances, the individual may develop a new cough that doesn't go away. Smoker's cough is a kind of chronic cough found in people who are regular smokers. MayoClinic.com notes that during the advanced stages of lung cancer, there is a change in this chronic cough. The individual may also begin to cough up blood. Wheezing is another symptom of advanced cancer of the lungs. This is when a whistling sound is heard while the individual is breathing. Besides these, the voice of the patient may also become hoarse. Breathing difficulties, such as shortness of breath, may also be experienced.
Weight Loss
According to MayoClinic.com, weight loss is another symptom of final-stage lung cancer. Even though the individual is not usually making any attempts to lose weight, a noticeable loss of weight is present. An individual may also experience loss of appetite, which can further contribute to the weight loss. Weakness, tiredness, and fatigue are additional symptoms that a patient may report.
Pain
According to MayoClinic.com, pain is a symptom of final-stage lung cancer. The individual may report pain in the chest as the cancer advances. Pain in the bones and headaches may also be experienced. Besides these, the patient may have recurrent respiratory infections such as pneumonia. These infections may be bacterial or viral.
