Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment


While people who smoke subject themselves to many health risks, lung cancer is one of the most deadly of diseases. When you smoke you are putting yourself at a higher risk to develop lung cancer.

Lung Cancer Diagnosis: What Are The Symptoms ?

While lung cancer in general does not show many symptoms until the latter stages, there are a few symptoms that a smoker would want to be aware of in the hopes of getting an early diagnosis. As with many forms of cancer the earlier the detection the higher the survival rate. Lung cancer is no different. Some of the symptoms are:

  • If you are a smoker or former smoker and have a cough that is persistent that is not associated with a cold or flu.
  • Shortness of breath
  • Coughing up blood
  • Chest pain
  • Hoarseness or Wheezing

While none of these symptoms is normally no reason for alarm, many symptoms that are common with a flu or cold are also signs that something more serious might be going on. It is important that if you are experiencing these symptoms that you go to your Dr. as soon as possible to rule out lung cancer. This is especially true if you are a smoker, or someone that used to smoke.

What are the Treatment Options ?

Treatment for any type of cancer is going to depend on several things. One of which being the persons’ overall health and also whether or not the cancer has metastasized (spread to other vital organs and tissue). Depending on each person, there are several treatment options available. Some of the more common treatments for lung cancer can include:

  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation
  • Surgery when appropriate

Conclusion

It is important that if you are at risk you see your Dr. at the earliest possible time after experiencing symptoms. Lung cancer has a much higher survival rate if caught early and if caught in stage I or II you might still be able to have surgery to remove the cancer.

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