Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Many people will not have any
symptoms of lung cancer, even when they are diagnosed with the disease. Diagnosis of lung cancer is often by accident and happens when the chest is x-rayed for another reason. However, overall most people will have some symptoms. Usually, though, even when symptoms are present they are misdiagnosed as other respiratory illnesses.
The following are things to watch for that could be symptoms of lung cancer:
- Persistent cough
- Coughing up blood
- Dull Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- A cough that suddenly develops and gets worse
- Wheezing
- Hoarseness
- Reoccurrence of respiratory illnesses
It is easy to see why thee symptoms may just be brushed off as
another respiratory illness. However, you have to be persistent, especially if you are experiencing more than one of these
symptoms of lung cancer. You may wish to ask for specific tests, like x-rays, which are relatively easy to get and noninvasive.
A doctor will be more likely to grant that request then he would if you were asking for a
more extensive test. You can simply explain you worry and why you believe you are at risk for lung cancer. Most of the time a doctor will be willing to consider your concerns and this may just be what you need to get the test that will allow you an early lung cancer diagnosis.
Other things to watch for that are related to the
symptoms of lung cancer include the following things are a result of cancer cells in the body. These things occur as a reaction to the presence of cancer and can be an indication of any type of cancer, not just lung cancer:
- Cancer present in the liver, adrenal glands, bones or brain.
- Extra tissue under the fingernails
- New bone growth in the legs or arms
- Anemia
- Muscle weakness
- Skin rashes
- High calcium levels in the blood
- Low sodium levels in the blood
- Brain degeneration
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
It can be hard to diagnose any
type of cancer, but with the confusing symptoms of lung cancer it is even harder to diagnose this type of cancer. It is very important for anyone that is at high risk for developing lung cancer just to be aware of the symptoms of lung cancer.
People who smoke, are exposed to smoke, air pollution or other toxins in the air or who are genetically pre-disposed to lung cancer should
stay alert about their health. Doctors can be hesitant to do any testing for cancer because of insurance limitations, so it is up t you to take matters into your hands and demand testing if you really feel it is necessary.
We have additional information on this subject you may be interested in reading:
lung cancer symptoms
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