5 early signs of lung cancer you need to know

The article was professionally consulted by doctors working at Oncology Center, Vinmec Times City International General Hospital.

Early signs of lung cancer are rare, and there are no screening tests that detect the disease in its early stages. Therefore, most patients are diagnosed when the cancer has advanced and metastasized in the body. Therefore, people at high risk for lung cancer (current and former smokers) are encouraged to have a low-dose CT lung scan to screen for cancer.

Advanced lung cancer often causes noticeable symptoms such as back and head pain, weight loss, and fatigue. Bone pain is also common, because this is where lung cancer tends to spread first.
Although most people diagnosed with lung cancer have no obvious symptoms in the early stages before metastasis, some people may still notice it. However, keep in mind that these symptoms may be related to other conditions than just lung cancer. Here are 5 early signs of lung cancer you need to know for early examination and timely treatment.

This is the earliest possible sign of lung cancer. "Sometimes, in the periphery of the lung, a tumor can grow to a relatively large size before being diagnosed because it doesn't cause many symptoms," said Dr. However, if a tumor presses on one of the bronchi, the main airways that go to the lungs, it activates cough receptors. "It can trigger a cough even when the tumor is relatively small, if inserted in the right place," explains Dr. McKee.
However, coughing is a very nonspecific symptom. When you cough, cancer does not. should be the first thing that comes to mind. Both the common cold and the flu can last for a few weeks. Despite having sensitive lungs, it's not normal for a cough to linger even after a runny nose and symptoms. else go away You don't need to worry about lung cancer in that situation if it is related to viral disease
If you have a cough that lasts for 2-3 weeks without any virus related illness or bacteria it's a sign that you should see a doctor.

Feeling short of breath is an early sign of lung cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Although dyspnea often presents in later stages of the disease, it is also often present when a tumor obstructs the airway. So, when you have any unexplained shortness of breath, you should see your doctor.

Some patients will cough up blood if the tumor is close to the bronchi. If you are coughing up blood or small amounts of red-brown sputum with no explanation, see your doctor as soon as possible. If you experience additional dizziness or trouble breathing, see your doctor right away.

If lung cancer has spread to the chest wall or caused swelling of the lymph nodes in this area, it can cause pain in the chest, back, and shoulders. Chest pain from lung cancer is worse when coughing, laughing, or breathing deeply.
Since chest pain can be a sign of some serious illness, tell your doctor if there is any unexplained discomfort in this area. Any persistent or severe chest pain should be checked. If you experience other characteristic symptoms such as chest pressure, sweating, nausea, dizziness or difficulty breathing, see your doctor as soon as possible.

Lung cancer-related breathing problems don't just come in the form of shortness of breath. It may appear as hoarseness or wheezing. If you notice any persistent changes in your breathing then you should see your doctor.
Recognizing these small symptoms can help you detect lung cancer in its early stages, which is important in treatment.

MORE: Lung cancer treatment options

According to Dr. McKee, there is a big difference in survival rates between early detection and late detection when it comes to lung cancer. In fact, the 5-year survival rate for people diagnosed with end-stage lung cancer is less than 10%, but when lung cancer is found in its earliest stages, it is more likely that the patient will die. successfully treated.
When there are suspected signs of lung cancer, you can go to Vinmec International General Hospital for examination and treatment. Vinmec provides a full range of necessary medical care services for cancer patients including: Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgical treatment, medical treatment, stem cell transplant,...; at the same time, helping to control pain by physiotherapy, peripheral nerve block, sympathetic block,...
Vinmec gathers a team of well-trained specialists in Oncology - radiation therapy. , rich in expertise and experience; system of modern equipment, meeting international standards; Professional service quality, high efficiency in diagnosis and treatment.

>> See also: Ingredients and uses of functional foods Fucoidan - Article by Pharmacist Nguyen Thi Thanh Hoa - Pharmacist Pharmacy - Vinmec Times City International General Hospital

For detailed advice on lung cancer as well as the medical examination and treatment process at Vinmec, please come directly to Vinmec health system or register online HERE.