Health chiefs have issued a fresh warning about people not seeking help from their doctor during the covid-19 outbreak – this time focusing on people with suspected lung cancer symptoms.
The Tees Valley Clinical Commissioning Group, which commissions local health services, said there had been a “dramatic drop” in patients in this category contacting their GP.
It recently revealed a large fall in booked appointments across the region at the start of lockdown earlier this year, although numbers have recovered since.
Medical director Dr Janet Walker said the symptoms of lung cancer – in particular a persistent cough – could be confused with the continuous cough associated with covid-19.
She said: “The symptoms of lung cancer are a persistent cough, coughing up blood, persistent breathlessness, unexplained tiredness and weight loss, an ache or pain when breathing or coughing.
“The symptoms of coronavirus are a high temperature, a new continuous cough and a loss of your normal sense of taste or smell.
“You can see the symptoms are similar and we want to offer clear advice to people about what to do.”
The CCG said anyone concerned about potential lung cancer symptoms should contact their GP.
A spokeswoman said: “Your doctor may arrange for you to have a nose or throat swab test to check if your symptoms are related to covid-19.
“If the test is negative and they think that your ongoing symptoms need to be investigated they may refer you for further tests.
“While waiting for your test and if your test is positive you will need to follow guidance to self-isolate.
“With a positive test if after 10 days you still have a temperature you should continue to self-isolate and seek medical advice.
“If after recovery from covid, you have symptoms of lung cancer, a persistent cough, coughing up blood, persistent breathlessness, unexplained tiredness and weight loss, an ache or pain when breathing or coughing, contact your GP.”
She added: “Cancer services are, where possible, returning to normal in many areas.
“Safety is a high priority and decisions about the timing and location of tests, assessments and treatment will be made while weighing up possible risk from covid-19.”
