Symptom 7: Fatigue
When we think of children, what often comes to mind is the image of them running around tirelessly, laughing, playing, and bubbling with untapped energy. Kids, after school hours, in parks, or during holiday seasons, seem to have a never-ending supply of vigor. This energy isn’t just because they’re young; it’s a sign of good health, well-functioning metabolism, and a body that’s thriving. So, when this energy takes a backseat and fatigue steps in, it’s more than just a sign of an active day; it might be an indication that not everything’s alright.
Every parent knows that there are days when their child might be more tired than usual. Maybe there was a sports event, a field trip, or just a day with lesser sleep. On such occasions, the tiredness is justified. But when a child starts feeling drained day after day, without any particular reason, that’s concerning. Parents might notice that the usual 8-10 hours of sleep doesn’t rejuvenate their child. Or perhaps, despite a balanced diet and ample rest, there’s a lack of enthusiasm or interest in daily activities. When the tiredness extends beyond a day or two and starts impacting their daily life, it’s time to dig deeper.
Lung carcinoma is not the first thing one thinks of when a child is fatigued. However, it’s vital to understand the connection. Lung tumors can hamper respiratory efficiency. This inefficiency means less oxygen reaches various body parts, making them work harder, leading to quicker exhaustion. Moreover, any form of cancer, including lung carcinoma, is an unwelcome drain on the body’s resources. As the body fights the malignancy, it uses up more energy, often leading to chronic fatigue. (7)
