12 Potential Indicators of Lung Cancer: Recognizing Early Signs is Key

6. Headaches

In the worst case, headaches could be a sign lung cancer has spread to the brain. If an individual has a chronic headache, it may simply be from chronic dehydration or high stress. When combined with other symptoms, however, a headache could mean a brain tumor has developed. In other cases, a tumor in the lungs can place pressure on the superior vena cava, a large vein that, when pressured, can trigger headaches. A tension headache is often caused by contracted muscles in the shoulders or neck. Lung cancer could be affecting these areas and in turn, chronic headaches develop.