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Most people associate lung problems with coughing or chest pain. However, the disease can also manifest in other parts of the body—even in places where you would never expect a connection. According to Dr. Christina Chun, one of the symptoms can be shoulder or joint pain, which many people often explain as the result of overuse or inflammation.
When to be alert: the first signals from the body
The most common warning sign that something is wrong with the lungs is a cough lasting longer than three weeks. If it does not improve and treatment does not help, it is essential to see a doctor. But the signals certainly do not end there. Lung disease can also present outside the respiratory system—for example with shoulder pain, fatigue, or loss of appetite.
Common warning signs:
- a persistent cough, sometimes accompanied by coughing up blood,
- pain when breathing, pressure on the chest,
- recurrent respiratory infections,
- unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite,
- fatigue and a feeling of exhaustion.
Why can the disease present as shoulder pain?
Pain in the shoulder area is a surprising but common manifestation of lung problems. The reason is the location of the upper lobe of the lungs, where issues often appear. Pressure in this area can radiate pain into the shoulder or joints. It is not uncommon for a patient to visit a doctor due to shoulder problems, only for a chest X-ray to reveal the real cause.
The pandemic and more difficult diagnostics
The situation is made more difficult by the fact that a cough is nowadays primarily associated with infections, and so people often postpone examinations. The pandemic has also heavily burdened the healthcare system, and waiting times for specialist examinations are longer than before. Many patients therefore hesitate to contact a doctor at all.
What to do if you suspect a problem?
If you notice the symptoms listed above, do not postpone a visit to your general practitioner. They can refer you for an X-ray or directly to a specialist. Some practices today also offer online consultations, which can be a quick way to determine whether an urgent evaluation is necessary.
It is crucial not to underestimate the symptoms. Even seemingly trivial shoulder pain can be a signal that the lungs should be checked. Early detection of the problem can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical care. If you have health problems, always consult your doctor or another qualified professional.
