Unexplained weight loss and a persistent cough are two symptoms that can worry both patients and doctors. Many people tend to ignore these signs, assuming they may be due to stress, a busy lifestyle, smoking, or common infections. However, when these symptoms continue for weeks or months without improvement, they may be the body’s way of signalling a more serious condition—sometimes even lung cancer.

At Breathe Superspeciality Clinic & Diagnostics, Guwahati, our pulmonology experts often meet patients who come with such complaints, uncertain about what these signs mean. Through this article, we aim to provide clear, professional, and patient-friendly information to help you understand the importance of not ignoring unexplained weight loss and long-term cough.

 

Understanding Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. It occurs when abnormal cells in the lung grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor that can spread to other parts of the body.

There are mainly two types:

  • Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): The most common form, making up about 80–85% of cases.
  • Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): Less common but more aggressive.

Lung cancer is often detected late because its early symptoms mimic common respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis, asthma, or tuberculosis, which are quite frequent in places like Assam and the Northeast region.

 

Why Does Lung Cancer Cause Unexplained Weight Loss?

Weight loss in lung cancer is not just due to poor appetite. Several mechanisms are involved:

1.   Cancer-related metabolism changes: Cancer cells consume more energy, leading to the body burning calories faster than normal.

2.   Cytokine release: The immune system releases certain proteins that can suppress appetite and alter how the body processes food.

3.   Difficulty eating: If lung cancer spreads or causes chest discomfort, swallowing and appetite may reduce.

4.   Chronic illness impact: The constant cough, fatigue, and breathlessness associated with lung disease can also lower food intake.

When weight loss happens rapidly (more than 5% of body weight within 6–12 months) without trying, it should never be ignored.

 

The Link Between Long-Term Cough and Lung Cancer

A cough that does not go away is one of the earliest and most common symptoms of lung cancer. While most coughs are due to infections or allergies, a cough lasting more than 8 weeks in adults is considered chronic and requires medical evaluation.

Reasons why lung cancer causes persistent cough include:

  • Irritation of the airways by the tumor.
  • Partial blockage of air passages.
  • Inflammation around the tumor.
  • Spread of cancer to nearby lung tissues.

 

Other Symptoms That May Accompany Cough and Weight Loss

Apart from long-term cough and unexplained weight loss, patients with lung cancer may also notice:

  • Coughing up blood or blood-stained sputum.
  • Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing.
  • Shortness of breath even with mild activity.
  • Hoarseness of voice.
  • Recurrent chest infections (pneumonia or bronchitis).
  • Fatigue and weakness.
  • Swelling of the face or neck (if large tumors press on blood vessels).

It’s important to note that having one or two of these symptoms does not always mean cancer. But ignoring them may lead to delayed diagnosis.

 

Risk Factors for Lung Cancer

Several factors increase the risk of lung cancer. Understanding these can help you and your doctor assess whether your symptoms need urgent evaluation:

1.   Smoking: The leading cause worldwide. Both active smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke increase risk.

2.   Exposure to pollutants: Diesel fumes, air pollution, asbestos, and arsenic.

3.   Radon exposure: A natural radioactive gas sometimes found in homes.

4.   Family history: Having a close relative with lung cancer.

5.   Personal history of lung diseases: COPD, tuberculosis, and pulmonary fibrosis.

6.   Age: More common after 40 years, though younger people can also be affected.

In Assam and the Northeast, smoking (especially beedi and cigarette use) and exposure to indoor cooking smoke in rural households are significant contributors to lung disease, including lung cancer.

 

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should not ignore the following signs:

  • Cough lasting more than 8 weeks.
  • Sudden, unexplained weight loss.
  • Coughing up blood.
  • Shortness of breath that is worsening.
  • Chest pain with coughing or breathing.
  • Frequent chest infections.

At Breathe Superspeciality Clinic, Guwahati, our experienced pulmonologists use advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate chronic cough and unexplained weight loss. Early detection can significantly improve outcomes.

 

Diagnosis of Lung Cancer

The diagnostic process may include:

1.   Medical History & Physical Examination

o   Understanding smoking history, exposure to pollutants, family history, and duration of symptoms.

2.   Imaging Tests

o   Chest X-ray: Often the first step.

o   CT Scan of Chest: Provides detailed images to detect tumors.

3.   Sputum Cytology

o   Examining mucus from the lungs under a microscope.

4.   Bronchoscopy

o   A thin tube is passed into the lungs to directly visualize and take tissue samples.

5.   Biopsy

o   Definitive test to confirm cancer.

6.   PET Scan and MRI

o   To check if cancer has spread.

 

Treatment of Lung Cancer

Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. The main treatment options are:

1.   Surgery: Removal of part or whole lung if detected early.

2.   Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays to kill cancer cells.

3.   Chemotherapy: Drugs that destroy cancer cells.

4.   Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific cancer cell genes or proteins.

5.   Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s natural defenses to fight cancer.

In advanced cases, treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and improving quality of life.

 

Why Early Detection Matters

Lung cancer is often diagnosed late, which is why survival rates are lower compared to other cancers. If detected early:

  • Surgery may offer a complete cure.
  • Patients may avoid aggressive treatments like chemotherapy.
  • Overall survival and quality of life improve significantly.

 

How Breathe Superspeciality Clinic & Diagnostics Can Help

At Breathe Superspeciality Clinic, Guwahati, we provide:

  • Expert consultation by experienced pulmonologists.
  • Advanced diagnostic facilities under one roof.
  • Personalized treatment plans for each patient.
  • Compassionate care focused on patient comfort and support.

If you or your loved ones are experiencing long-term cough and unexplained weight loss, do not delay consultation. Early medical attention can make all the difference.

Contact us at 8822153356
Visit: www.breatheclinicguwahati.com

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does a persistent cough always mean lung cancer?
No. Most long-term coughs are due to asthma, COPD, allergies, or infections. But if the cough lasts more than 8 weeks, especially with weight loss, it should be checked.

2. I am a non-smoker. Can I still get lung cancer?
Yes. About 10–15% of lung cancers occur in people who have never smoked. Pollution, genetic factors, and second-hand smoke also play a role.

3. How fast does lung cancer develop?
It varies. Some types grow slowly over years, while others spread rapidly within months.

4. Is lung cancer curable?
If detected early, surgery and treatment may completely cure lung cancer. In advanced stages, treatment helps control symptoms and improve life expectancy.

5. What is the difference between TB and lung cancer symptoms?
Both can cause cough, weight loss, and night sweats. Only medical tests like X-rays, CT scans, and biopsies can differentiate between them.

6. What should I do if I notice blood in my cough?
Seek immediate medical consultation. It may be due to infections, TB, or lung cancer, but should never be ignored.

7. Can lifestyle changes reduce lung cancer risk?
Yes. Quitting smoking, avoiding second-hand smoke, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, and reducing exposure to pollutants can significantly reduce risk.

 

A long-term cough combined with unexplained weight loss should never be taken lightly. While these symptoms may be due to common conditions, they could also be warning signs of lung cancer. Early diagnosis saves lives.

At Breathe Superspeciality Clinic & Diagnostics, Guwahati, our team of pulmonologists is dedicated to helping patients in Assam and the Northeast with timely diagnosis, advanced treatment, and holistic care. If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, reach out today.

📞 Contact: 8822153356
🌐 Website: www.breatheclinicguwahati.com