Experts have issued a warning over a little-known lung cancer symptom that strikes while you are asleep.
A huge 48,500 people are diagnosed with the condition in each year, according to Cancer Research UK, with 4,940 people across Scotland receiving a lung cancer diagnosis in 2021, according to the latest Public health Scotland figures. The deadly disease was named alongside breast, bowel and prostate cancer as one of the most common types of the disease in the country.
It means it is vital to be aware of possible warning signs, with one such warning sign occurring at night while you are asleep. According to NHS GP Dr Anita Raja , patients struck by lung cancer may wake up from their sleep covered in sweat.
Also known as sleep hyperhidrosis, the symptom, in combination with other signs such as a cough could warn of the deadly cancer, reports the Mirror.
Dr Raja said: "The patient may feel that they are waking up drenched in sweat, along with a fever. If this is accompanied with a dry cough of more than three weeks or blood in your sputum (phlegm) this may indicate lung cancer."
The doctor added that you should "seek urgent medical attention" if you suffer from any of these symptoms.
While awareness of this symptom is especially important for those who smoke - as smoking can increase risk of lung cancer - some may not realise that they can still develop the disease without partaking in the habit.
Around one in eight people with the condition have never smoked, warned the UK Lung Cancer Coalition (UKLCC).
As well as warning of lung cancer itself, treatment for the condition could also cause night sweats, according to experts.
This can be linked to low levels of disease-fighting white blood cells, which can happen after radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
Cancer Research UK stated: "Sweating can be a symptom of cancer, or may be due to cancer treatment.
"It can be very distressing. It can also be embarrassing if you are in a social situation. There are things you can do to help. And your doctor may be able to prescribe medicines to control it."
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