Symptoms of early-stage lung cancer often go unnoticed by the sufferer. Symptoms of this disease are usually only diagnosed when it has entered an advanced stage. Therefore, it is important to know the symptoms of early-stage lung cancer so that treatment can be carried out early.
Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of death from cancer in the world. According to WHO, it is estimated that around 1.7 people died from lung cancer in 2015.
One of the causes of the high mortality rate from lung cancer is the difficulty of detecting the symptoms caused by this cancer early on. This makes many new lung cancer cases diagnosed after entering an advanced stage and increasingly difficult to treat.
Symptoms of Early Stage Lung Cancer
It is not easy to recognize the presence of symptoms of lung cancer at an early stage. Most of the symptoms of this disease are often similar to other diseases, such as tuberculosis, pleural effusion, pneumonia, bronchitis, and lung abscess.
The following are some of the symptoms that can appear in early-stage lung cancer:
1. Persistent cough
Coughs can be caused by mild conditions, such as the flu or respiratory tract irritation. However, if the cough doesn't stop for more than 2 weeks, it could be a sign of lung cancer.
Immediately consult a doctor to get a complete examination, including a physical and supporting examinations such as a chest X-ray.
2. Coughing up blood
A chronic cough with blood or blood in the sputum can be a symptom of early-stage lung cancer. To be sure, it is necessary to have a direct examination by a doctor.
3. Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath or gasping for breath when doing simple activities can also be a sign of early-stage lung cancer. Shortness of breath can occur due to cancer cells blocking the airways or a buildup of fluid around the lungs.
However, shortness of breath is not only a sign of lung cancer. Shortness of breath during light activity can also be a symptom of heart failure.
4. Chest pain
Lung cancer can also cause chest pain that can radiate to the shoulders or back. Usually, this pain is sharp, appears continuously, or sometimes comes and goes.
Chest pain can also be a symptom of heart disease. However, chest pain due to lung cancer usually gets worse when you take a deep breath, cough, or laugh.
5. Hoarse voice
Hoarseness that occurs suddenly and lasts more than 2 weeks can be a symptom of early-stage lung cancer. Hoarseness occurs when cancer cells affect the nerves that control the vocal cords, causing changes in the voice.
6. Wheezing
A wheezing sound when you inhale or exhale is a sign of certain health conditions, such as allergies or asthma. However, it can also be a symptom of lung cancer. Therefore, immediately consult a doctor if the wheezing does not go away within 2 weeks.
7. Weight loss
People who suffer from cancer, including lung cancer, will usually lose weight drastically. This is caused by cancer cells using energy and taking all the nutrients in the body.
So don't ignore changes in your weight, especially if they happen when you don't make changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Symptoms of lung cancer can also include fever, fatigue, difficulty eating or swallowing, swelling of the fingers, and suspicious lumps appearing on the body.
Lung Cancer Risk Factors
There are many factors that can increase a person's risk of developing lung cancer. The following are some risk factors that you need to know and avoid:
Smoking habits and exposure to cigarette smoke
Smoking habits or too often exposed to secondhand smoke can increase the risk of lung cancer. Therefore, you are advised to stop smoking and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
Exposure to radon gas
Radon is a natural gas produced from the breakdown of uranium in soil, water and rocks. Exposure to or inhaling large amounts of radon gas is one of the factors that can increase the risk of lung cancer.
Asbestos exposure
Working in a mine or factory can expose you to asbestos. This can put you at a higher risk of developing lung cancer. Especially if you are an active smoker.
Air pollution
Too long in a place that has a high level of air pollution, making the risk of lung cancer becomes greater. About 5 percent of lung cancer deaths worldwide are caused by air pollution.
heredity
If a family member has a history of lung cancer, you are more likely to be at risk of developing the disease. However, a study also shows that the emergence of lung cancer is also related to environmental factors in the family, such as smoking and exposure to pollution in the neighborhood.
After knowing the various risk factors for lung cancer, it is hoped that you will realize the importance of living a healthy lifestyle from now on. You can do this by quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and eating nutritious foods.
Don't hesitate to have regular medical check-ups with your doctor to detect certain diseases early, including lung cancer. This early examination is recommended, especially if you have risk factors for lung cancer, even if there are no symptoms of early-stage lung cancer.