Lung Cancer: The Facts Everyone Should Know
You likely know that smoking is the top risk factor for lung cancer. But did you know that you can still develop lung cancer without ever touching a cigarette?
With so many potential triggers surrounding you, being aware of the early signs of lung cancer is vital. Identifying cancer in its early stages is your key to a better chance of surviving the disease.
The Early Signs of Lung Cancer
In its initial stages, lung cancer is often a subtle foe. Many people with lung cancer will be asymptomatic at first. However, as the American Cancer Society¹ points out, some indicators are red flags.
If you’re concerned about lung cancer, you need to be aware of these signs. Recognizing them and bringing them to your doctor’s attention promptly can lead to an earlier diagnosis and a better prognosis.
Treatment Options for People Diagnosed with Lung Cancer
When it comes to fighting lung cancer, the best treatment depends on your unique circumstances and your specific cancer. WebMD² notes that your doctor will likely suggest one or more of the following treatment options:
- Surgery: Doctors surgically remove the cancerous tissue. This may involve the removal of all or part of a lung.
- Chemotherapy: Whether via pill or intravenously, chemo medications are designed to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy tends to involve several rounds of therapy over a period of weeks.
- Radiation: During a series of treatments, the tumor is blasted with high-energy rays that kill cancer cells.
- Radio frequency ablation: After inserting a thin needle into the chest cavity until it touches the tumor, doctors use an electric current to generate heat and destroy the cancer cells.
If you’re experiencing symptoms that might indicate the presence of lung cancer in its early stages, don’t wait. Get checked out immediately – the sooner you get a diagnosis, the sooner you and your doctor can put together a treatment plan.
If you’re interested in learning more about lung cancer, start a search today.
