Symptoms of lung cancer may not appear until the cancer is in the advanced stages, making diagnosis difficult in many cases.
That is why it is very important for people, especially those at high risk, to understand lung cancer symptoms. People must be aware what these symptoms are and see their doctor if they even suspect they may have lung cancer.
Unseen Disease
Lung cancer does not usually produce any tell tale symptoms in earlier stages. Usually when symptoms do present they are related to the growth of the tumor or the spread of cancer to other areas of the body. In many cases, lung cancer is discovered when a chest x-ray is taken for another reason.
Without early symptoms, early detection of lung cancer is not possible, and as the disease grows, it becomes more difficult to treat and the likelihood of it spreading to other parts of the body becomes more likely.
Even when symptoms do present, it can be difficult to notice that they are something more than a chest cold or other common respiratory illness. Many times people ignore them or use over the counter medication to try and treat what they believe is a simple virus.
Warning Signs
You know what it feels like to have a common virus or infection. Lung cancer symptoms are usually similar and can include:
* Pains in the chest
* Shortness of breath
Being informed and aware is the best way to catch lung cancer symptoms early. Watch out for the following:
* A new cough that develops suddenly, especially if you smoke or used to smoke.
* A nagging cough that does not respond to cough medication
* Pain in the chest that is dull, yet persistent.
* Gasping
* Roughness
* Repeated respiratory illness
Lung cancer symptoms can also vary depending on the type of cancer. Metastatic lung cancer tumors may react differently in the body and cause different symptoms. They can spread to the adrenal glands, the bones and even the brain. Most do not cause any symptoms.
Part of the reason why lung cancer has a high death rate is because it is very difficult to catch in the early stages.
Anne Durrel comes from California. She has, combined, over 3 years of experience in Lung Cancer. You may want to check out her other guide on lung cancer symptoms tips and asbestos siding guide.
