Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality across the world. While smoking and secondhand smoke are the leading reasons behind this deadly disease, other factors can contribute to it and to lung cancer symptoms. Everyone should know the early signs and symptoms of lung cancer. So, read on to get the information you need to be prepared.
What Causes Lung Cancer?
Smoking cigarettes, cigars, and pipes are the biggest causes of lung cancer. In fact, if you smoke, you are 15 to 30 times more likely to develop lung cancer.
Plus, the longer you smoke, the more likely you are to develop lung cancer. Thankfully, quitting smoking does lower your chances of developing lung cancer and other diseases related to smoking such as heart disease, COPD, peripheral artery disease and more.
However, exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, and radon gas can also increase the risk of developing lung cancer. Approximately one out of every four Americans, including children, is around secondhand smoke daily.
Radon gas, which occurs naturally in the soil and rock formations, can infiltrate commercial buildings, homes and other structures. Over time, exposure to radon gas may contribute to the development of cancer in the lungs.
Finally, family history and genetics also play a role in some cases of lung cancer. There is some research which indicates that genetic mutations predispose family members to lung cancer.
What Are the Symptoms of Lung Cancer?
The most common early signs of lung cancer include:
- Persistent coughing
- Coughing up blood or blood-tinged mucus
- Chest pain
- Bone pain
- Poor appetite
- Difficulty breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Hoarseness
- Fatigue
- Sudden weight loss
- Recurrent respiratory infections, such as pneumonia or bronchitis
- Recent and severe development of any of these symptoms
Some symptoms, such as weight loss or blood clots, may not become obvious until lung cancer has spread beyond the origin site to other parts of the body.
If the symptoms persist for more than two weeks without any kind of significant improvement, consult an experienced lung doctor immediately for an in-office exam. The specialist will review your symptoms, do a physical assessment and perform tests such as chest X-ray, lab work and possible CT scan.
Are There Other Symptoms of Lung Cancer?
While the above symptoms are commonly associated with lung cancer, there are other less well-known symptoms. These include:
- Headaches
- Swelling in the face or neck
- Loss of appetite
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
These health problems may be caused by other diseases or conditions. So be sure to see your primary care physician or pulmonologist for the right diagnosis and treatment plan.
Remember, too, that many symptoms of lung cancer are not obvious. Also, some people seem totally asymptomatic until their cancer is advanced. Accordingly, some people should be screened on a yearly basis for lung cancer to catch the disease early while it is still treatable.
Should I Get a Lung Cancer Screening?
The current recommendations for annual lung cancer screening include:
- People who currently smoke or quit less than 15 years ago
- Age between 50 and 80
- Have a smoking history of 20 pack-years or more
A pack year is the number of packs you smoke(d) per day multiplied by the number of years you smoked. For instance, a person who smoked 1 pack a day for 20 years has a 20 pack-year history and should receive annual lung cancer screening.
Low-dose computerized tomography (CT scan) is the best way to screen for lung cancer in people who may not yet be symptomatic. The test is quick and painless and gives lung doctors a detailed view of these important respiratory organs.
Treatment for Lung Cancer Symptoms in Austin, TX
At Austin Pulmonary, our providers treat patients who have a wide range of lung issues. Our diagnostics and treatments are state of the art. Plus, our desire to educate people on lung cancer, COPD, asthma and more is second to none.
To learn more about the symptoms of lung cancer and your possible risk factors, please contact us for a consultation at one of our three offices in either Cedar Park, North Austin and South Austin, TX. You also may use our online appointment request form. Please contact Austin Pulmonology soon.
