Despite a reduction in the number of people who smoke, lung cancer is still a major concern for medical authorities across the USA. Having a family history of cancer is an indicator that you may be at higher risk of contracting lung cancer. If you become a smoker early in life, then the chances that you will be a cancer statistic increase exponentially.
So, what can you do to reduce your risk and hopefully detect the early signs that indicate you have developed lung cancer?
Early Signs and Symptoms of Lung Cancer
These are eight early warning signs of lung cancer that you should never ignore:
- A marked loss of appetite.
- A cough that gets worse or one that does not want to go away.
- If you experience chest pain or severe discomfort, that is notably worse when coughing, laughing, or with very deep breathing.
- Your sputum (phlegm) is rust-colored or you find yourself coughing up blood.
- Severe hoarseness for no apparent reason.
- Unexpected or unexplained weight loss that bears no relation to the food you are eating.
- Feeling of shortness of breath.
- Feelings of general weakness or tiredness that can’t be explained as due to some other cause.
If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these signs, then it is recommended by the FDA that you consult your doctor as a matter of urgency.
Additional Testing Required to Confirm Diagnosis
The eight warning signs mentioned above are only an indication that something might be wrong and your doctor will have to conduct several tests to rule out any other causes. Testing for lung cancer at your annual check-up is highly recommended. Although various diseases can present as lung cancer at first, it is prudent that your doctor rules it out as a cause for concern early on.
Cancer is a disease that is generally easier to treat the earlier you can receive a firm diagnosis and start treatment. The lung cancer treatment Orange County research company, City of Hope, is investing billions of dollars in research programs and treatments for this deadly disease. Remember, routine screenings are a quick way to rule out any medical problems before they become a major concern.
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