How Do I Know I Have Lung Cancer?

 

Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious types of cancer worldwide. It often goes undetected until it reaches an advanced stage, which makes early identification critical. Many people wonder, “How do I know I have lung cancer?” The answer isn't always straightforward, but recognizing the symptoms and understanding the risk factors can help you seek timely medical attention.

Understanding Lung Cancer

Lung cancer occurs when cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably. These abnormal cells can form tumors and interfere with how the lungs function. There are two main types of lung cancer:

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): This is the most common form, accounting for about 85% of cases.

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): This type spreads faster and is often linked to smoking.

Knowing which type you have is important for choosing the right treatment plan.

Common Symptoms of Lung Cancer. In the early stages, lung cancer might not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, as it progresses, you may experience the following signs:

1. Persistent Cough -A lingering cough that doesn’t go away or worsens over time is one of the most common symptoms. If you’ve had a “smoker’s cough” for years and it changes in tone or frequency, it’s time to consult a doctor.

2. Coughing Up Blood- Even small amounts of blood in your sputum (phlegm) can be a warning sign of lung cancer and should never be ignored.

3. Shortness of Breath -Difficulty breathing or feeling winded from tasks that used to be easy (like climbing stairs) can indicate a lung issue, including cancer.

4. Chest Pain - Pain in the chest area, especially when breathing deeply, coughing, or laughing, may signal a problem in the lungs.

5. Hoarseness- Changes in your voice, such as becoming hoarse or raspy, could be caused by pressure on nerves near the lungs.

6. Unexplained Weight Loss -Sudden, unintentional weight loss often signals an underlying health problem, including cancer.

7. Fatigue -Feeling unusually tired or weak, even with enough rest, may be a systemic symptom of cancer.

8. Frequent Infections -Recurring respiratory infections like bronchitis or pneumonia can be another indicator.

If you're in Delhi NCR, scheduling a consultation with the Top Lung Cancer Oncologist in Delhi NCR could be a life-saving decision. These specialists are trained to detect even subtle signs of the disease and guide you through advanced testing and treatment.