THE HSE have issued an urgent 'don't regret it later' alert over a cough that could be a cancer symptom. The health bosses have warned that a cough lasting three weeks could be a serious sign. Taking to X (formerly Twitter) the HSE warned the cough could actually be a symptom of lung cancer .
They said: "A cough lasting over 3 weeks could be a sign of lung cancer. "Contact your doctor today. Don’t regret it later.
" Sharing a video alongside the warning the HSE highlighted how people could mistake the cough for something else such as a chest infection. The warning was reiterated in the video saying: "Contact your GP or doctor right away and get that cough checked." Lung cancer is the fifth most common form of cancer in Ireland with around 2,600 people diagnosed each year.
There are two types of lung cancer including non-small-cell lung cancer and small-cell lung cancer. Non-small-cell lung cancer is the most common form and does not spread as quickly as the small-cell form. While anyone can be diagnosed lung cancer is most common in people over 50.
In the early stages of the cancer symptoms can be hard to spot so staying vigilant of any health changes is very important. The HSE outline some common early symptoms of the disease to stay vigilant for. They include: There are some other less common symptoms of the cancer the HSE also urge people to be aware of.
These include wheezing, a hoarse voice, finding is hard to swallow and swelling of the face and neck. You may also notice chest of shoulder pain that does not go away or larger finger tips with clubbed nails. If you notice any of these symptoms you should contact your GP right away.
They will likely perform blood tests, have a chest x-ray done and examine your breathing. Avoiding smoking is the number one thing you can do to reduce your risk of lung cancer. Seven out of 10 cases of lung cancer are caused by tobacco smoke.
Other causes can include being exposed to and breathing in radon or other carcinogenics over long periods of time. If you have a family history of lung cancer or suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) your risk is also higher. To reduce your risk you should avoiding smoking, second hand smoke and take steps to reduce exposure to radon and other carcinogenics.
Alongside this you should attempt to live an active and healthy life style by eating well and exercising regularly..
