When people think about lung cancer, they often imagine symptoms like a persistent cough or shortness of breath. But there’s one early warning sign that’s far less obvious — and you can check for it yourself with a simple “finger test” at home.
According to The Mirror, lung cancer spreads faster than many other types of cancer, with nearly 40,000 new cases diagnosed each year in the UK. Unfortunately, symptoms often don’t appear until the disease has already advanced. That’s why spotting the early signs can make a life-saving difference.
How to Do the Finger Test
Here’s how you can perform the quick self-check:
- Press the nails of your two index fingers together.
- Look closely where they meet.
- If you can see a tiny diamond-shaped gap of light between the nails, that’s normal.
- If there’s no gap and your fingertips look swollen or rounded, it could be a sign of finger clubbing — a condition sometimes linked to lung cancer.
Finger clubbing happens in stages:
- The base of the nail becomes soft.
- The skin near the nail bed appears shiny.
- The nails start curving more than usual.
- Finally, the fingertips may swell due to fluid buildup in the soft tissue.
While finger clubbing doesn’t always mean you have lung cancer, it’s worth getting checked. It can also be linked to other health conditions such as heart or lung disease. If you notice changes in your fingers, see your GP as soon as possible.
A Real-Life Example
Brian Gemmell, a lung cancer survivor, knows firsthand how important this simple check can be. He had no cough or chest pain — only swollen fingers. When his GP noticed the clubbing and sent him for an X-ray, it revealed early-stage lung cancer, still confined to one lung.
“Go and see your doctor if you’ve got anything that concerns you — that’s what a GP is for,” Brian advised. “Go as soon as you can.”
Expert Advice
Early detection dramatically increases the chances of successful treatment. GP Dr. Helen Piercy advises:
“If you notice any signs or symptoms that concern you, see your GP. First, phone for an appointment. You’ll be assessed and invited in if you need a face-to-face visit. Don’t be afraid — pick up the phone.”
Lung cancer can spread faster than many other types of cancer, and catching it early dramatically increases survival chances.
Other Possible Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Everyone experiences lung cancer differently. Some people have several symptoms; others have none at all. These signs don’t always mean cancer — but it’s always better to check:
- A persistent cough lasting three weeks or more
- Breathlessness
- Wheezing
- Frequent chest infections
- A cough that changes or worsens
- Chest or shoulder pain
- Coughing up blood or blood-stained phlegm
- Unexplained fatigue or low energy
- Hoarseness
- Swelling in the face or neck
Bottom Line
The finger test is a simple, no-cost way to spot a possible early warning sign of lung cancer. It only takes a few seconds — but if something doesn’t look right, don’t ignore it. Early action can save lives.
Source: www.hulldailymail.co.uk
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before beginning any herbal remedy.