What is Lung Cancer? What are its Symptoms and its Treatment?

Of all the types of cancer that we have become familiar with in the past few decades, lung cancer is at or near the top of the list. Breast cancer gets as much attention from media, from patients and family members as lung cancer, but lung cancer is also quite feared among the general population.

When cells grow at an uncontrolled rate in the lungs, cancer has gotten a good start. Lung tissue is rejuvenated or grows into normal, healthy tissue except when “abnormal” cells cause masses or lumps. This might first be experienced as reduced lung capacity but can eventually cause more serious problems. Lung cancer is often life-threatening.

In some cases, this cell growth begins in the lungs and spreads to other parts of the body through the lymph system or through blood circulation. It is important to catch cancer spots or collections of cells early, before the condition spreads throughout the lungs or to the rest of the body.

According to the American Cancer Society 15 percent of all cancer is diagnosed as starting in the lungs. Among deaths caused by cancer, 29 percent are due to lung cancer. A majority of these cases are caused by tobacco smoking or by pollution from outside sources. In fact, studies show that about 90 percent of some types of lung cancer are directly related to inhaling tobacco smoke.

One of the first symptoms of lung cancer is intense, continuous coughing. Pain can develop from this excessive activity. Lung cancer can cause severe shortness of breath, even in the early stages. The voice may become hoarse because of limited air passage when talking and from inflammation of the throat and larynx. In some cases, people cough up blood. Conditions such as pneumonia and bronchitis are more likely in those with lung cancer.

It is also possible that individuals feel abnormal fatigue, developed a fever or even lose weight in the early stages of lung cancer. General pain and swelling is also common. Doctors have to diagnose lung cancer with chest X-rays, MRI or CT scans, and sometimes even cameras inserted internally through the mouth. If possible, doctors would like to take some cells out if they are possibly cancerous, so they can examine these cells under a microscope.

Cancer is described in stages, depending on size and extent of a tumor, the degree to which it has spread through the body and whether it is developing in other major organs. Treatment options include radiation, chemotherapy and surgery. Some patients may choose “alternative” methods that include dietary changes and herbal supplements. Patients may find that chemotherapy and radiation cause additional problems and may choose dietary changes, vitamins, herbal supplements etc. In fact, some medical professionals have moved away from using chemical and radiation techniques because they feel them toxic. Individual treatment programs can be designed by the family members, doctors and others. Treatment options should be carefully considered, using all the information available.