Lung Cancer Health Article

Symptoms

Because lung cancers tend to spread very early, only 15% are detected in their early stages. The chances of early detection, however, can be improved by seeking medical care at once if any of the following symptoms appear:

• a cough that does not go away
• chest pain• shortness of breath
• persistent hoarseness
• swelling of the neck and face
• significant weight loss that is not due to dieting or vigorous exercise; fatigue and loss of appetite
• bloody or brown-colored phlegm (sputum)
• unexplained fever
• recurrent lung infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia

Diseases other than lung cancer may cause these symptoms. It is vital, however, for patients to consult a physician to rule out the possibility that they are the presenting symptoms of lung cancer.

If the lung cancer has spread to other organs, the patient may have other symptoms such as headaches, bone fractures, pain, bleeding, or blood clots. Early detection and treatment can increase the chances of a cure for some patients; for others, it can at least prolong life.

Physical examination and initial tests

If lung cancer is suspected, the physician will take a detailed medical history to document the symptoms and assess the risk factors. The history is followed by a complete physical examination. The physician will examine the patient's throat to rule out other possible causes of hoarseness or coughing, and listen to the patient's breathing and the sounds made when the patient's chest and upper back are percussed (tapped). The physical examination, however, is not conclusive.

If there is reason to suspect lung cancer—such as a history of heavy smoking or occupational exposure to substances known to irritate the lungs—the physician may order a chest x ray to see if there are any masses in the lungs. Special imaging techniques, such as PET scans (positron emission tomography), CT (computerized axial tomography) scans or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) may provide more precise information about the size, shape, and location of any tumors. X ray and other imaging techniques may be performed by a radiologic technician.