‘Right diagnosis and early detection of lung cancer symptoms is key to healthy recovery’
Dr. Ramakant Deshpande
“There are several symptoms to watch for that may turn into chronic lung disorders including cancer if left untreated for long. Dr. Ramakant Deshpande, Chief of Thoracic Surgical Oncology, Asian Institute of Oncology explains the importance of timely diagnosis of some chronic syndromes that may lead to spread of lung cancer.”
Here we are going to know more about 10 Symptoms of Lung cancer
Summary
Lungs are for breathing, peaceful breathing, and ensuring an uninterrupted supply of fresh oxygen for body organs. Any inhibition in breathing is caused by several factors including smoking, drinking, environmental pollution, etc. Over the year, the cases of lung cancer in India are on the rise and impacting lots of people including women.
“Lung cancer is developed by inhaling carcinogens either via polluted air or smoking, but people who smoke have 30 times more chances of developing lung cancer. Twenty years back, the average age of developing lung cancer was 50-60 in India, which has come down to 40 years now. At that time women were not among lung cancer patients, but now they form a significant chunk of lung cancer patients,” informs Dr. Ramakant Deshpande.
There are specific symptoms for cancer patients that prompt a doctor to conduct a physical and provisional diagnosis. This helps a doctor to perform cancer staging and assess the severity of the disease.
10 Symptoms of Lung cancer
1. Hacking Cough
A persistent dry cough lasting more than two months could indicate chronic lung issues, including cancer. Smokers should pay extra attention to changes in their coughing patterns.
Even nonsmokers with a chronic cough accompanied by other symptoms should consult a specialist immediately.
Even if you are a nonsmoker and have a dry cough with other symptoms, it could be a serious lung infection or cancer.
2. Shortness of breath
Difficulty breathing can result from fluid buildup in the chest cavity caused by a tumor.
This blockage may lead to wheezing or whistling sounds.
Don’t dismiss these symptoms as allergies or asthma; see a doctor promptly.
3. Bleeding
Coughing up blood, even in small amounts, requires immediate medical attention.
This symptom could signify lung cancer or other severe respiratory conditions and should not be ignored.
4. Chest Pain
Unexplained chest pain that persists or spreads to nearby areas might indicate advanced lung cancer.
Proper diagnosis by an expert oncologist is essential, especially if the pain is localized or worsening over time.
5. Weight loss
A sudden, unexplained loss of weight might occur because cancerous cells consume more energy.
If you’re not on a diet or exercise plan and notice significant weight changes, consult your doctor immediately.
6. Loss of appetite
Many lung cancer patients experience a sudden reduction in appetite, which can lead to malnourishment.
At advanced stages, approximately 90% of patients report appetite loss.
7. Lump in the neck
A swollen gland in the neck or armpit can be an early sign of lung cancer spreading to the lymph nodes. Immediate medical attention is crucial for further diagnosis.
8. Blood clots all over the body
Blood clots (thrombi) can occur due to the disease itself or as a side effect of medication. Clots that migrate to the lungs can be life-threatening, requiring urgent intervention.
9. Generalized weakness
Muscle weakness, particularly in the lower limbs, is often linked to small cell lung cancer. If accompanied by fatigue and other symptoms, seek a professional diagnosis.
10. Right side abdominal pain
Discomfort in the right abdomen, yellowing of the skin and eyes, or a swollen tummy may indicate that lung cancer has spread to the liver.
These symptoms should prompt immediate consultation with a specialist.
Lung cancer that has spread beyond the lungs may lead to nausea, pain, headaches along other symptoms depending on the area of infection.
“In case of persistent symptoms a person must seek a doctor. Smoking, chewing tobacco or even e-Cigarette that contains nicotine may cause lung cancer,” warns Dr. Deshpande.
Benefits of Early Lung Cancer Detection and Diagnosis
Lung cancer in advanced stages is very difficult to cure and often treatments are given to reduce the signs and offer painless life to patients.
But early detection and diagnosis of the disease can definitely help in curing cancer with better outcomes and stop further spread of the disease.
In the early stage, the 5-year survival rate (percentage of people who survived more than 5 years after the treatment) is 95%.
Low-dose CT (LDCT) scans can help in the detection of cancerous areas in the lungs. Unlike chest x-rays, research has shown that yearly LDCT scans to screen people at higher risk of lung cancer can help in early detections and save more lives.
Getting yearly LDCT scans before symptoms appear can help reduce the risk of dying from lung cancer.
Who Should Be Screened?
The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends a yearly lung cancer screening with LDCT for the smokers of the following categories
- Active smokers having 1 or more packs of cigarettes per day, and
- Smoking now or have quit within the past 15 years, and
- Age between 50 to 80 years old
Line of Treatment for Lung Cancer
Lung cancer treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach, including medical and surgical oncologists and radiation therapists.
- Early-Stage Cancer: Surgery is often the first line of treatment, followed by chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
- Advanced Cases: Targeted therapies and immunotherapy are used to slow disease progression and improve quality of life.
- Supportive Care: Psycho-oncology consultations help patients prepare for treatments and manage side effects.
MedicoExperts recommend being in touch with a well-experienced doctor in case you are seeing any of the above-mentioned symptoms.
In case, you would like to take an opinion from a comprehensive tumor board – a team of expert oncologists including, medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, and Radio oncologists – you may like to get in touch with MedicoExperts. For more information, please email us your medical query with reports at [email protected] or Call/WhatsApp us at +919769516280
Doctor Speaks
Dr. Ramakant Deshpande
MS; FICS; FAIS; DHA
Experience: 31+ years
Chief of Thoracic Surgical Oncology, Asian Institute of Oncology Padmashree award by the President of India in 2014
FAQs
Q1. What are the early signs of lung cancer?
The most common early signs include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss.
Q2. Can lung cancer symptoms mimic other illnesses?
Yes, symptoms like fatigue, cough, and chest pain can resemble asthma, bronchitis, or pneumonia. A thorough medical evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Q3. How can I reduce my risk of lung cancer?
Avoid smoking, limit exposure to pollutants, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular screenings for high-risk individuals are also recommended.
Q4. Is lung cancer treatable if detected early?
Yes, early detection increases the likelihood of successful treatment and long-term survival.
