According to the research, nearly 40% of patients suffering from lung cancer has learned his diagnosis when the disease is already in the third stage, ie when it is already too late.
Lung cancer is rarely show symptoms and it is difficult to notice at an early stage.
Fortunately, there are 7 signs that indicate lung cancer and may help in the diagnosis before it’s too late.
1. Persistent cough
Pay attention to the cough. If the cough disappeared after one or two weeks, that means you have survived a respiratory infection or cold. However, if you suffer from the same cough even after two weeks, it may be indicative of lung cancer.
If you cough up mucus, you should visit your doctor who will refer you to do the appropriate tests and examinations of the lungs and chest, such as X-rays. If you notice some changes, such as a cough accompanied by hoarseness, coughing up blood or too much mucus, then you need as soon as possible to visit your doctor.
2. Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath is another symptom of lung cancer and it may be caused by fluid in the chest, as a result of lung tumors. Another possible reason for the shortness of breath is narrowing (lock) of the airways.
Therefore, if during the performance of certain daily activities, and feel that you lack air, for example, when purchasing groceries, climbing stairs, it is advisable to visit your doctor.
3. Pain in the chest, back or shoulders
Although the pain caused in these areas is not often associated with lung cancer may result from metastases in breast, lung, or enlarged lymph nodes or ribs.It does not matter whether you are feeling healthy, strong and inert, it is essential that you have to visit your doctor to be sure what’s going on with your health.
4. Wheezing
If you notice a whistling sound while breathing, see your doctor. However, you should not panic, because such noises occur when the airways are tighten or inflamed.Whistling may be a sign of something harmless, and if persists, then you should definitely see a doctor.
5. Weight Loss
When you have lung cancer, it may cause a sudden drop in body weight. This is because cancer cells use the energy that the body receives nourishment.
6. Bone pain
If you feel severe pain in the bones or any part of the back at any time during the day or night, then you should not ignore this symptom and you need to consult with your doctor.
7. Continuous headache
If you constantly feel a headache, then you may be dealing with lung cancer that has spread to the brain. The occurrence of headaches will always be associated with metastases in the brain. This may occur if the lung tumor pressure main vein that brings blood from the upper body to the heart.
How can lung cancer be detected at an early stage?
X-rays can’t detect lung cancer on time, but there is a CT scan (computed tomography) which may assist in the process of discovering hidden diseases on time and reduce the possibility of death when it comes to lung cancer.
The conclusion is that we should not wait for some sign to appear to visit doctor, go to the X-ray or CT scan . Any person between 55 and 80 years of age and those who were active smokers in the last 15 years should have the tests done as soon as possible, in order to prevent lung cancer.
EmoticonEmoticon