Although this condition can be easily mistaken for aging, sedentary lifestyle, or excessive weight, it is an important indication that you should visit a healthcare provider for a more thorough examination. Some people may dismiss it as a smoker’s cough, but it may indicate something more serious. For more information, read the following Lung Cancer Symptoms.
A biopsy is often required to confirm lung cancer diagnosis. This can be done with a thin needle or by using a bronchoscope (a lighted scope with a camera), which enters the airway through the nose or mouth and looks for lesions. A sample is taken. In some cases, the lesions are too far away to be seen with a bronchoscope and a more invasive surgical procedure may be necessary. In this case, the doctor will remove a piece of lung tissue to determine the type of cancer.
Lung cancer can also cause other complications. When the tumor presses against the superior vena cava, a large blood vessel that returns blood from the upper body to the heart, it is known as a superior vena cava syndrome. When this happens, blood flow to the face is impaired, causing swelling and dilated veins. Depending on the location of the tumor, this can be a sign of Lung Cancer.
One of the first signs of Lung Cancer is a cough. The lungs do not have nerve endings, but structures surrounding the lungs have them. Because the lungs are not filled with nerves, pain in the back is a common symptom of the disease. Lung cancer may also spread to the bones of the spine or to small organs on top of the kidneys. Regardless of the underlying cause of the pain, you should seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
In addition to coughing, lung cancer can lead to hoarseness. The vocal cords of people with lung cancer can become impacted by the tumor, making it difficult to breathe. Other symptoms of the disease include chest pain and difficulty breathing. While x-rays are helpful in diagnosing lung cancer, a specialist must be able to perform a diagnosis in order to determine whether the symptoms are due to lung cancer.
The presence of bleeding in the airway is a symptom of lung cancer. It can occur while the patient is coughing. Fortunately, there are treatments to alleviate the bleeding. The pain associated with the disease can vary. It can be intense or mild, and can be attributed to a number of factors. It may be caused by a weakened immune system. Patients with lung cancer should see their health care provider if these symptoms persist or if they persist.
