That type of cancer that begins in your lungs is commonly called Lung cancer. Lungs are two spongy organs in our chest that help us to inhale oxygen and release the carbon dioxide while exhaling. It is the leading cause of death due to cancer among both men as well as women.
What Causes it?
Though it can occur in people who have never smoked, the greatest risk of having them lies in people who smoke. The risk of lung cancer is directly proportional to the length of time and the number of cigarettes smoked. That is more the number of cigarettes and time, the more are the chances of lung cancer.
Some possible signs and symptoms include a lump, prolonged cough, abnormal bleeding, unexplained weight loss and a change in bowel movements. Other than these there are also other causes and symptoms.
Simple ways to avoid Lung Cancer
One must go to a doctor (oncologist suggested in this case) in case of the above signs and symptoms are seen. Many cancers can be prevented by some simple measures like not smoking, not drinking too much alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a lot of fresh vegetables and fruits, not smoking , getting vaccination against certain diseases which are infectious, avoiding too much sunlight , eating less of red meat and processed food , especially meat.
If one quits smoking the chances of developing it decreases, however, the risk is not omitted.
Symptoms to look for Cancer in the Lungs
The signs and symptoms become more prominent when it has matured or has become advanced, however, it typically doesn’t cause signs and symptoms initially.
The main symptoms are:
An abnormal kind of cough that doesn’t go
Coughing blood
Shortness of breath
Chest Pain
Hoarseness
Losing weight suddenly
Bone pain
Headache
One should immediately make an appointment with the doctor in case the above symptoms are seen
Are there any Silent Symptoms of Cancer in the Lungs?
If they are silent then you don’t regard them as signs or symptoms. We find cancers on two occasions. While we are doing a customary workup or pre-surgical workup for the anomalies to come to light, such as an accidental finding on an x-ray or blood work (that is why we do the tests to inspect these elements) and when people are complaining of a symptom that needs solving.
What is Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer?
Based on the appearance of cancerous cells under the microscope doctors divide this disease into two types: Small cell lung cancer and Non-small cell lung cancer. That type of lung malignancy that occurs exclusively in heavy smokers in small cell lung cancer. Whereas, non-small cell lung cancer is just an umbrella term for several types of lung cancers working in a similar way. It includes large cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma.
Treatment available for Cancer in the Lungs
One needs to examine oneself when choosing a lung cancer treatment plan with your doctor. Based on a number of factors like for example, one’s overall health, the stage, and type of cancer and also one’s preferences, the doctor will further advise you.
If opting for surgery, the surgeon works on removing the lung tumor cells and a margin of healthy tissue. Procedures to remove it include Lobectomy, Wedge resection, pneumonectomy. Other lung cancer treatment includes Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, radiosurgery, targeted drug therapy, Immunotherapy, palliative care.