What are the symptoms of lung cancer?

 What are the symptoms of lung cancer?

Lung cancer, the second most prevalent cancer in the United States and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths for both genders, occurs when cancer cells develop in lung tissue and the lining of air passages. There are two primary types: small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Detecting lung cancer early can be challenging as symptoms often start mildly and progress slowly. Common symptoms include chest pain, a persistent cough, and frequent respiratory infections. Recognizing these warning signs is crucial for early diagnosis, which significantly improves treatment outcomes and life expectancy.

Early symptoms of lung cancer:

Early symptoms of lung cancer can be elusive, often resembling those of other ailments or even presenting no detectable signs at all. The sparse distribution of nerve endings in the lungs allows tumors to grow silently without causing noticeable discomfort or pain. However, if symptoms do emerge, they may include a worsening cough, chest pain or discomfort, hoarseness, wheezing, shortness of breath, or recurrent respiratory infections.

As lung cancer advances, it can manifest more pronounced symptoms:

As lung cancer advances, it can manifest more pronounced symptoms. One indication of its progression is the recurrence of lung infections like pneumonia or bronchitis, especially if tumors are present in the lungs. Additionally, other advancing symptoms may emerge, including weakness, headaches, loss of appetite, breathing difficulties, coughing up blood, swallowing difficulties, facial swelling, enlarged lymph nodes, unintended weight loss, increased fatigue, and exacerbated chest pain when breathing deeply, coughing, or laughing.

Furthermore, lung cancer can induce various syndromes affecting different parts of the body, which may resolve with effective treatment of the underlying cancer. Progressive lung cancer may give rise to the following conditions:

• Horner syndrome: Typically associated with tumors in the upper part of the lungs, Horner syndrome manifests with symptoms like drooping of one eyelid, a smaller pupil in the affected eye, and diminished sweating on the same side of the face. This syndrome is more frequently observed in cases of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

• Superior vena cava syndrome: Lung tumors in the chest region can exert pressure on the superior vena cava, a major vein responsible for carrying blood from the head and arms to the heart. This syndrome results in blood congestion in the veins, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and swelling in the face, neck, arms, and chest.

• Paraneoplastic syndromes: Predominantly associated with small cell lung cancer (SCLC), paraneoplastic syndromes encompass a range of conditions, including blood clotting disorders, nervous system abnormalities, hypercalcemia (elevated calcium levels in the blood), and Cushing syndrome—an endocrine disorder characterized by excessive cortisol production due to cancer cells.

End stage symptoms:

Once lung cancer progresses to its end stage, symptoms can become more pronounced and widespread as the cancer spreads to distant parts of the body. Generally, individuals may experience a pervasive feeling of unwellness. Common sites of metastasis for lung cancer include the bones, nervous system, and liver, each presenting distinct symptoms:

• Bone Symptoms: End-stage lung cancer may manifest with bone-related symptoms such as back or hip pain and an increased frequency of bone fractures.

• Nervous System Symptoms: Symptoms affecting the nervous system may include headaches, muscle weakness, numbness, dizziness, loss of balance, and even seizures.

• Liver-related Symptoms: As lung cancer progresses to its end stage, liver metastases can cause abdominal pain and jaundice, characterized by the yellowing of the skin and eyes.

When should you schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider?

As the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, lung cancer demands prompt attention when symptoms arise. This urgency is especially crucial if you fall into high-risk categories, such as being a smoker or having been exposed to hazardous substances like radon, asbestos, or secondhand smoke.

Consider seeing your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms associated with lung cancer:

• A worsening cough that persists over time
• Chest pain aggravated by deep breathing
• Recurrent lung infections
• Coughing up blood

While lung cancer may not always be preventable, you can take steps to reduce your risk, with quitting smoking being paramount. If you're ready to tackle tobacco use and need assistance, don't hesitate to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and support to help you achieve your goal.