Getting diagnosed with lung cancer

Seeing your GP when you have symptoms of lung cancer

You should see your doctor if you notice a change that isn't normal for you. Or if you have any of the possible signs and symptoms of cancer.

Even if you're worried about what the symptom might be, don't delay seeing them. If you're finding it difficult to get an appointment you should keep trying. Your worry is unlikely to go away if you don’t see someone about it.

The symptom might not be due to cancer. But if it is, the earlier it's picked up the higher the chance of successful treatment. You won't be wasting your doctor's time.

Try not to be embarrassed. What you tell your GP is confidential. Doctors are used to discussing intimate problems and will try to put you at ease.

Hospital tests

The GP might arrange for you to have blood tests. You usually have these at your GP practice or your local hospital. Depending on your symptoms, your GP can arrange some hospital tests, such as an x-ray or CT scan.

Referral to a specialist

Depending on your symptoms and test results, your doctor might refer you to a specialist.

Referral to a specialist for symptoms of lung cancer

Your GP should arrange for you to see a specialist or have tests if you have symptoms that could be due to lung cancer.

Symptoms of lung cancer

Lung cancer doesn't always cause symptoms in its early stages. Symptoms can include a cough that won't go away, coughing up blood and breathlessness.

Diagnosing lung cancer

You usually start by seeing your GP, and they might refer you to a specialist and organise tests. Or you might be referred to a specialist and further tests if screening for lung cancer or a lung health check showed that you might have lung cancer.

Tests for lung cancer

Your GP or specialist might arrange for you to have tests. You usually have a chest x-ray, CT scan and PET-CT scan to diagnose lung cancer. You might also have a bronchoscopy and biopsy.

What is lung cancer?

Lung cancer starts in the windpipe (trachea), the main airway (bronchus) or the lung tissue. Cancer that starts in the lung is called primary lung cancer.

Lung cancer main page

Lung cancer starts in the windpipe (trachea), the main airway (bronchus) or the lung tissue. Cancer that starts in the lung is called primary lung cancer.