Cancer rates are rising, especially among young people, underscoring the urgent need for greater awareness of the warning signs.
Early detection of the disease gives patients the best chance of remission and survival. However, vague warning signs often make this challenging.
One woman has revealed that she didn't know anything was wrong until taking a selfie with her children.
Speaking on the social media platform of the ALK + Lung Cancer UK charity, 47-year-old Jenny said she had none of the classic lung cancer symptoms.
Jenny was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer
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“A year ago I was told I had stage 4 lung cancer," she told viewers. "I was not out of short breath."
Jenny was going about her day when she spotted something strange while taking a picture with her family.
"One evening I was taking a selfie with my kids and half of my face didn’t work," Jenny explained.
“I went to the doctors and got sent to hospital, and it turned out that I had a massive seizure in the hospital, and when I came around they said I had a lung tumour.”
While facial paralysis is very uncommon with lung cancer, it can occur when the disease spreads to the bones of the skull where the facial nerve is located.
Once the nerve has been damaged and its function disrupted, patients can experience facial weakness or paralysis on the affected side of the face.
ALK + Lung Cancer UK noted: “Anyone can get lung cancer, as Jenny’s experience proves.
"Facial paralysis was the unexpected symptom that led to her Stage 4 EGFR+ lung cancer diagnosis."
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Typical signs of cancer include chest pain and weight loss
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“Since then, cancer has given Jenny a new perspective on life, reminding her to embrace every moment and find joy in the little things.
“Lung cancer symptoms can be vague and aren’t always related to breathing. Signs like fatigue, persistent pain, or stubborn cough could be worth checking out whatever your age or smoking history.
“If something feels off, it’s always best to consult your GP. Early detection makes treatment easier.”
The NHS notes that typical signs of the condition include a cough that doesn't go away, chest pain, and weight loss.
