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Signs & symptoms

Symptoms of lung disease tend to come on slowly and can be very mild. People often mistake their symptoms as signs of aging or lack of fitness. This leads to many people adjusting their daily activities to accommodate or reduce their symptoms, rather than getting help. Knowing the early warning signs of lung disease can help you receive treatment before the disease becomes serious or life threatening. If you experience any of the following warning signs, make an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Check how healthy your lungs are, by taking our interactive Lung Health Checklist.

Common Symptoms 

  • Breathlessness
  • Persistent cough
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Wheeze
  • Chest infections
  • Mucus production
  • Coughing up blood
  • Chronic chest pain

When to book an appointment with your GP? 

You should see your doctor if:

  • You are short of breath
  • It hurts to breathe
  • You have a fever (38o C or above)
  • You are coughing up a lot of mucus (particularly if it is yellow or green in colour)
  • There is blood in the mucus
  • Your symptoms are not improving, or they are getting worse

If you are concerned about your lung health, or are experiencing any of these symptoms, complete our online Lung Health Checklist and book an appointment with your GP immediately.

Next steps

During your appointment, your GP will ask about your symptom history. It is a good idea to think about when you first noticed your symptoms and whether these symptoms have developed or changed over time. This type of information will help to inform your GP when making a diagnosis.

Your GP may perform a physical examination which will include listening to your chest with a stethoscope. You may want to wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment.

Based on your physical examination and pattern of symptoms, your doctor will decide if further testing is required. Further tests could include lung function testing (spirometry) or a high-resolution CT scan.

If you have any questions, we are here to help you navigate through and connect you with support services and programs. Contact our Information and Support Centre to find out more, on the free call number 1800 654 301.

Information and support
Our Information and Support Centre team are here to assist you with your questions, provide general information and referral to support services. This free and confidential service is available Monday to Friday 8am – 4.30pm (AEST). Call 1800 654 301 or email enquiries@lungfoundation.com.au.
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