Symptoms of lung cancer: the signs of a tumor include blood in the mucus

Lung cancer is one of the most serious types of cancer to diagnose because it is usually difficult to detect until it has spread to other parts of the body. But it's also one of the most common cancers in the UK, the NHS warned. The signs of the disease tend to only come to light when the cancer has spread to the lungs. You may be at risk for lung cancer if you notice that your phlegm has a red hue, it was said.

Red streaks in your phlegm could be a sign of blood presence, according to the Healthline Medical website.

The search for blood in mucus or phlegm is a harbinger of lung cancer, added the British Lung Foundation charity.

Although it does not necessarily mean that you have lung cancer, it's always a good idea to talk to a doctor.

"Often you will not show any symptoms of lung cancer until the tumor gets big enough," said the charity.

"It means that it can only be discovered if you have an x-ray or scan for a different reason.

"As your health progresses, you will begin to experience symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, and blood in the mucus or phlegm.

"If you have these symptoms, you should see your doctor. Having these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have lung cancer – they are common and have many different causes.

"People with long-term lung disease may already have many. But it is very important to tell your doctor if your usual symptoms are changing or getting worse.

The blood in your phlegm – which is a mixture of saliva and mucus – can come from anywhere along the airways.

Blood-stained mucus has several causes, including bronchitis, nosebleeds, and other chest infections.

It could even be caused by pneumonia, cystic fibrosis or tuberculosis.

Other symptoms of lung cancer include a cough that does not go away, hoarseness or shortness of breath.

If you are worried about the signs or symptoms of lung cancer, you should consult a doctor.

Every year, about 45,000 people in the United Kingdom are diagnosed with lung cancer.

The outlook for lung cancer is not as good as for other types of cancer, as symptoms are usually only detected at an advanced stage.

About one in three patients live at least one year after diagnosis, while one in 20 lives another 10 years.