Signs of Lung Cancer

Recognizing the symptoms of lung cancer early can lead to better outcomes. Here are five signs to be aware of:

• Persistent coughing

  One of the most common signs of lung cancer is a persistent cough that doesn't go away. It might be time to consult a doctor if you've been coughing for weeks and it's not linked to a cold or infection.

• Chest pain

  Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing can be a sign of lung cancer. This pain may result from the tumor pressing against other parts of the chest.

• Shortness of breath

  Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath during everyday activities can indicate lung cancer. Tumors can block air passages, making it hard to breathe comfortably.

• Unexplained weight loss

  Losing weight without trying is a common symptom of many cancers, including lung cancer. If you notice a significant drop in weight and can't attribute it to changes in diet or exercise, seek medical advice.

• Coughing up blood

  Hemoptysis, or coughing up blood, even in small amounts, should never be ignored. It can be a direct symptom of lung cancer and warrants immediate medical evaluation.

Treatments for Lung Cancer

Once diagnosed, treatment options depend on the type and stage of lung cancer. Here are five common treatments:

• Surgery

  Surgery is often used if the cancer is confined to the lungs. The goal is to remove the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue to eliminate all cancerous cells.

• Radiation therapy

  Radiation uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It can be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments like surgery to shrink tumors and reduce symptoms.

• Chemotherapy

  Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It's often used before surgery to shrink tumors or after to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.

• Targeted therapy

  This treatment targets specific mutations within cancer cells that help them grow. By blocking these mutations, targeted therapy can slow down or stop cancer progression.

• Immunotherapy

  Immunotherapy helps the body's immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. It's typically used for advanced lung cancer or when other treatments are ineffective.