One of the deadliest and frequently occurring type of cancer in the whole world is lung cancer. It is a disease that impacts millions of individuals annually and most of them remain unaware of the disease until it has advanced to a later stage. Early diagnosis is nevertheless a key to survival and quality of life even with the improved treatment. It is very important to have some knowledge of the symptoms and the causes of lung cancer so that they can be able to go to a doctor at the onset of the symptoms, so in this blog, we are going to cover that only.
What is a Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer starts when cells in lungs multiply out of control and form a tumour. These cancerous cells might kill the healthy tissue of the lungs, and they may move to other parts of the body (metastasize). There are two main types of cancer of the lung:
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Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): This is the prevalent, making almost 85 percent of the cases.
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Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): A more virulent one, which is most often associated with smoking.
Premature Signs of Lung cancer
Symptoms of lungs cancer are usually absent in the early phases. Nevertheless, when the illness advances, among sure indicators can be mentioned the following symptoms:
1. Persistent Cough
One of the most common symptoms is the presence of a non-resolving cough or the cough that becomes more severe. When this happens to be the case, it is imperative to visit a doctor as soon as possible.
2. Breathlessness
The tumor may clog airways or may lead to rising of fluid in the lungs, which makes breathing difficult as it increases.
3. Chest Pain
Chest discomfort or pain, in particular, during a deep breath, cough, or laugh, can indicate lung cancer.
4. Hoarseness
One can experience voice changes or hoarseness in the event that the cancer involves the nerve that regulates the vocal cords.
5. Weight Loss without an Explanation
Weight loss: Weight loss without conscious dieting is a sign of cancer or some other severe medical problems.
6. Fatigue
Constant fatigue despite taking rest may indicate the reaction of the body to the increasing tumor.
7. A lot of Respiratory Infections
Recurring bronchitis or pneumonia could indicate a tumor which causes obstruction in the airway.
Advanced Symptoms
In any case, when lung cancer advances and spreads to other parts of the body, e.g. beyond the lung, it may result into symptoms:
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To bones: Back pain, hip pain or pain in the ribs
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To the brain: Headaches, dizziness, seizures
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On the liver: Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
If you or somebody you love happens to observe any of the discussed symptoms, especially in the case when you was a smoking person or you are an individual who was surrounded by carcinogens it is necessary to have an evaluation done by the medical professional.
Main Causes of Lung Cancer
Smoking Tobacco
Lung Cancer Leading Cause of Lung Cancer Cigarette smoking is the main cause of lung cancer. More than 80% of lung cancer mortality is attributable to tobacco smoking. Risk is highly elevated by both active and passive exposure to smoking.
Exposure to Secondhand Smoke
Even if you don’t smoke, if you’re around people who do, you’re at risk of developing lung cancer through exposure to carcinogens over long periods of time.
Radon Gas
Radon - a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can build up indoors. It’s the second biggest cause of lung cancer and the most common cause in people who don’t smoke.
Occupational Hazards
Workers in industries exposed to asbestos, arsenic, chromium, and nickel are at the greatest risk of getting the disease.
Air Pollution
Long-term exposure to dirty air can modestly elevate the risk, particularly in urban or industrial areas.
Family History
Some family members of patients have a gene that makes it more likely that they will develop lung cancer.
Personal Medical History
Your risk of lung cancer may be higher if you’ve had lung disease or have received radiation therapy to the chest during the past.
Who are at risk of lung cancer?
There are people who have a higher risk to get lung cancer:
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Ex-smokers and smokers
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Individuals above 50 years
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People who spend time in an environment where there are toxins
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Individuals who have a cancer history in the family
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People who have fragile immune systems
It is really important to comprehend your risk and make a decision and take preventative strategies.
When to visit the Doctor?
When:
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You are coughing and this cough has lasted over three weeks
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You see blood in your sputum
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You are losing weight without a reason why
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You experience persistent small or shortness of breath or chest pain
The earlier the diagnosis the better the prospects of treatment and survival. Are you worried? Do not hesitate and consult a doctor.
What are the Diagnostic Tests Of Lung Cancer?
To be sure of lung cancer doctors can advice:-
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To identify abnormal masses or tumors, chest X-rays and CT Scans will be used.
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Sputum cytology - The analysis of mucus with use of a microscope
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Biopsy The removal of small part of tissue to be analyzed in the laboratory
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PET scan, - To determine whether cancer has spread to other body parts.
Prevention Tips
Although not every chest malignancy occurrence is preventable, you may decrease your risk by:-
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Stopping Smoking- This is the best thing you can do
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Avoiding Secondhand Smoke -Avoid the smoke-filled places
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Radon Testing in the home- Particularly in Radon prone regions
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Use of Protective Gears- When working in risky areas
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Eating Healthy and Living Healthy- Exercise, healthy diet, and check ups
Conclusion: Take a Right Step For Timely Cancer Care
One of the most feared diseases is lung cancer and when detected very early before it affects all the major organs and they receive the right information, the patient is at a high chance of survival. This would be one of the best measures in this fight against this disease i.e. to detect the symptoms of this disease at its onset and understand what makes it take place. Don't be afraid of contacting a specialist in case you or any of your loved ones manifest symptoms or are in the high-risk bracket.
Dr. Pooja Babbar is among the most reputed & best medical Oncologist in Gurgaon to consult in case one needs some special care.
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Experience in the field of Oncology of 15+ Years
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More than 20,000 Patients.
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More Than 700 Complex Cancer Cases Taken on
Dr. Pooja Babbar is the physician who gained her fame not only due to her clinical knowledge but also due to the compassion and clearness shown in each interaction with a patient. And she stays with a patient on the way towards accurate diagnosis and on the way towards individual treatment strategies.
Are you seeking expert advice on your cancer pursuit? Dr. Pooja Babbar is the best medical oncologist in Gurgaon. Book a call today.
