Some seemingly discreet changes in the body may go unnoticed or be treated as something unimportant. Changes in the shape of the nails, enlargement of the fingertips and small yellowish elevations around the eyes, for example, do not always indicate a serious problem, but may be associated with conditions that require medical evaluation.
Changes in nails can be a sign of lung cancer; understand
Some seemingly discreet changes in the body may go unnoticed or be treated as something unimportant. Changes in the shape of the nails, enlargement of the fingertips and small yellowish elevations around the eyes, for...
According to radiation oncologist Jiri Kubes, one of the lesser-known signs of lung cancer may appear on the hands, rather than the chest. The statement was made on social media and echoed by the Huffington Post newspaper.
What is digital clubbing? Digital clubbing is a rare change characterized by the enlargement of the fingertips and the progressive curvature of the nails.
The condition is also known as “drumstick fingers” or “watch glass nails.” As changes tend to occur slowly, the expert warns that the first signs may be difficult to notice.
“Normally, the condition progresses through different stages, so knowing how to recognize the signs can be important to reach an earlier diagnosis,” explained Kubes.
One of the first changes is the softening of the nail bed, the region located below the nail, accompanied by redness in the surrounding skin.
As the condition progresses, the nails may become more curved and the fingertips begin to appear more rounded and enlarged.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, in the early stages of digital clubbing, the nail and nail bed still appear flat when viewed from the side. The changes become more evident as the condition progresses.
When to see a doctor? According to Kubes, any unexplained change in the shape of fingers or nails should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
"Although digital clubbing is not always a sign of cancer, it can also be related to lung, heart or inflammatory diseases. Therefore, changes without an apparent cause need to be investigated," he said.
During the consultation, the doctor will be able to examine the fingers, check for the presence of other symptoms and order tests, if considered necessary.
Other symptoms associated with lung cancer
Among the signs that also deserve attention are:
Persistent cough; Coughing up blood; Frequent shortness of breath; Fatigue without apparent cause; Unexplained weight loss; Pain when breathing or coughing.
These symptoms can have different causes and do not necessarily mean the presence of cancer. Still, when they persist or appear together, they should be investigated by a doctor.
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Source: Noticias ao Minuto - Ultima Hora
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