Major Warning Signs of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a form of cancer that begins in the lung cells. Adenocarcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, begins in the glandular cells on the outside of the lung, and small-cell cancer (e.g. small cell carcinoma) starts in the cells lining the bronchi. Lung cancer, while it begins in the lungs, can metastasize, which means it can spread to other parts of the body.

Each year, more men and women die from lung cancer than breast, colon, and prostate cancer combined. It is a highly fatal disease, with hundreds of thousands of new cases being diagnosed each year. It's critical to recognize the early warning signs of lung cancer in order to intervene appropriately. The earlier individuals seek treatment, the better their prognosis.

A Chronic Cough

Many individuals say they 'just have a cough' and chalk it down to nothing more than that, waiting far too long to be examined. Lung cancer does not just develop in smokers, so non-smokers need to take these symptoms just as seriously as someone who has smoked for years.

If an individual has a cough due to a short-term respiratory infection or cold, their symptoms should subside within a week or two. This length of time is normal and is not worrisome. However, if a cough is lingering, individuals should have their lungs examined by a physician. They will first listen to their lungs and then administer an x-ray.

Changes In Breathing Patterns

If an individual has had a chronic cough for quite some time, they should pay attention to changes such as coughing more often or if their cough has turned quite hoarse. In terms of breathing patterns, individuals should be mindful of any changes and listen to their body. If they experience shortness of breath with no explanation, for instance, it could be lung cancer.

In some cases, fluid builds in the chest due to a tumor, or cancer cells causing a blockage of some sort. It's not normal to suddenly experience issues with breathing. Does walking up a flight of stairs cause a winded feeling? Individuals should also ask themselves if they experience shortness of breath when completing simple tasks that were not difficult prior to the symptoms.

Chest Pain

In terms of increased pain, symptoms generally start within the chest. There may be pain throughout the back, neck, shoulders, and even the head. Regardless of the type of pain — sharp or dull, individuals should speak with a doctor about possible causes.

Often when chest pain is experienced, patients have enlarged lymph nodes or a tumor developing on the chest wall, ribs, or lungs. It may also mean they're suffering from pleuritis, a condition that causes inflammation within the lining of the lungs. Although lung cancer can cause this, so can an infection, lupus, or even arthritis. This is why a consultation with a doctor is so important.