Lung cancer often presents no symptoms until it has spread, but doctors have identified an early sign that can appear on the fingertips. Known as finger clubbing, this condition involves swelling of the fingertips and changes in the nails.
To check for finger clubbing, press your fingernails together. Normally, a small diamond-shaped gap of light is visible between the nails. If this gap is absent, it may indicate clubbing, which develops in stages: the nail base softens, the skin next to the nail bed becomes shiny, the nails curve more than usual, and the fingertips enlarge due to fluid buildup.
While the absence of the diamond gap does not automatically mean lung cancer, it can be a symptom. Brian Gemmell, a lung cancer patient whose only symptom was finger clubbing, urges anyone concerned to see their GP promptly. Dr Helen Piercy, a GP in West Lancashire, advises: 'If you notice any signs or symptoms that concern you, see your GP. Don't be afraid. Pick up the phone.'
Other typical lung cancer symptoms include breathlessness, wheezing, and a persistent cough with blood or phlegm. Early detection can significantly improve treatment options, so consulting a doctor if you notice any changes is crucial.
