Lung squamous cell carcinoma starts in the large airways, so it announces itself with cough and breathing changes earlier than many other lung cancers.

Persistent cough is the star. It starts dry, becomes productive, and can bring up rusty or blood-streaked sputum.

Chest pain is common. It feels like a deep, dull ache or a sharp stab that gets worse when you breathe or cough.

Shortness of breath creeps in. You puff faster than friends on stairs or feel winded during light activity.

Wheezing shows up if the tumor partly blocks an airway, causing a whistle-like sound on exhale.

Repeated lung infections can occur. The same area gets inflamed, so bronchitis or pneumonia keeps coming back.

Late signs include weight loss, hoarseness, or a hard neck lump—an alarm the cancer has spread.