Lung cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms in its early stages. The following symptoms can be indicative of lung cancer:
- fatigue
- unexplained weight loss
- a cough that won’t go away
- recurring lung infections
- shortness of breath
- chest pain
These symptoms can be especially worrisome if you have risk factors that increase your chance of developing lung cancer, such as smoking or having a family history of the disease. If symptoms are persistent, then you may want to see a doctor for further testing to determine the cause. A doctor can take a family history and order blood tests. Your doctor can also order tests such as X-rays or CT scans in order to get a closer look at your chest and lungs.
If a cancerous growth is suspected, then cells may need to be collected. Procedures such as thoracoscopy and fine-needle aspiration allow your doctor to remove cells from your lungs or lymph nodes to determine if cancerous cells are present.
If you are diagnosed with lung cancer, your doctor will refer you to a specialist, such as a pulmonologist or radiation oncologist. With respect to treatments, it is not uncommon for lung cancer patients to participate in clinical trials of new or experimental drugs. This is because lung cancer can be hard to treat with currently available treatments.
Treatment for lung cancer will vary from patient to patient. Among the treatment options available are radiation therapy, chemotherapy and surgery. Surgery can involve removal of part or all of the affected lung and some lymph nodes. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy use energy rays or drugs to kill cancerous cells; side effects might include nausea, fatigue and hair loss.
When undergoing treatment for lung cancer, it is important to eat well. Proper nutrition will help you maintain your strength and energy.