10 Symptoms That May Indicate Large Cell Carcinoma

9. Swelling in the Neck or Face

Swelling in the neck or face, particularly around the eyes, can be a serious and often late-stage symptom of large cell carcinoma. This can occur if a tumor in the lung grows large enough to compress the superior vena cava (SVC), a major vein that carries blood from the head, neck, and upper chest back to the heart. This compression, known as SVC syndrome, causes blood to back up, leading to noticeable swelling, shortness of breath, and even dizziness. Such symptoms demand immediate medical attention as they indicate a significant obstruction.

10. Clubbing of Fingers and Toes

A less common but highly distinctive physical sign associated with lung cancer, including large cell carcinoma, is "finger clubbing." This involves changes in the shape of the fingers and nails: the fingertips enlarge, and the nails curve downward around the fingertips, resembling a drumstick. This occurs due to fluid accumulation in the soft tissues of the fingertips, though the exact mechanism related to lung cancer is not fully understood. While not exclusive to cancer, finger clubbing is a symptom that should never be ignored and always prompts a thorough medical investigation.