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Types of Lung Cancer: Early Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
By Raveena M Prakash
Lung cancer remains one of the most common and deadly types of cancer across the world. Here’s what makes it especially dangerous: its symptoms, which often appear in the advanced stages. Identifying these cancers' early signs, types, and stages can make a life-saving difference through early detection and treatment.
In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the main types of cancer and their early signs you shouldn’t ignore, who’s at risk, and when to consult a doctor!
Types of lung cancer
Lung cancer usually begins in people when abnormal cells start to grow uncontrollably in the lungs. There are two major types of cancer in the lungs, often classified by the kind of cells affected and how they appear under the microscope.
Here are two types of these cancer, including:
1. Non- Small Cell Lung Cancer
NSCLC is the most common type, accounting for approximately 85% of all lung cancer cases. These types of cancers usually grow and spread more slowly than small cell lung cancer.
There are several types of cancer, including:
Adenocarcinoma
These types of cancers are often found in the outer parts of the lungs. These are more common in non-smokers and women.
Squamous cell carcinoma
These types of cancers often begin in the central bronchi of the lungs. These types of cancers are commonly linked to smoking habits in people.
Large cell carcinoma
This is a less common type of cancer that can appear anywhere in the lungs, and tends to grow quickly than expected.
2. Small Cell Lung Cancer
SCLC accounts for about 10-15% of cases of all cancers in the lungs, and these types of cancers are often associated with people who have smoking habits. These are aggressive types, which often respond well to chemotherapy and radiation, especially if detected in early stages.
Early warning signs you shouldn’t ignore!
There are many early warning signs of these cancers that can be mistaken for common respiratory conditions like bronchitis or constant colds. However, persistent or unexplained symptoms should always be considered seriously.
Here are key early warning signs you shouldn’t ignore, including:
Persistent cough
If you are experiencing a cough that doesn’t get better even after 2 weeks, then this is one of the most common signs of lung cancer. If you find yourself coughing more than usual, especially with no relief, then consider it as a sign and get an immediate medical evaluation.
Coughing up with blood
Even a small amount of blood found in your cough or mucus, then it can be a huge red flag, get yourself checked immediately. This symptom itself requires immediate medical attention.
Shortness of breath
If you are feeling shortness of breath or short of breath after performing any mild physical activity, then it could indicate that a tumor is blocking your airway or fluid is building up in the lungs.
Chest pain
If you are experiencing any chest pain which worsens with deep breathing, coughing or laughing can indicate that you have lung issues. Experiencing persistent chest pain should never be ignored.
Hoarseness
When cancer starts to affect the nerves which control the vocal cords, then your voice might become weak or hoarse.
Sudden weight loss
If you are losing weight without trying or changing your diet, then it can often indicate that your body is fighting a disease, which could be cancer.
Fatigue and weakness
If you are experiencing constant tiredness and fatigue, even after getting proper rest and sleep, then it could be a sign of cancer, which converts your energy to fight cancerous cells.
Recurrent infections
People experiencing frequent bronchitis or pneumonia in the same area of the lung may showcase a point to underlying tumor development.
Who is at risk?
There are certain factors that increase the risk of developing this cancer. According to many studies, 80% of lung cancers are caused by smoking, while there are some other factors that influence the risk of forming this cancer in people.
Here are few things which makes people at risk of developing this cancer, including:
- Smoking: This is the main cause of this cancer.
- Secondhand smoke (passive smoking)
- Exposure to radon smoke
- Occupational toxic exposure
- Family history of lung cancer
Note: Even non-smokers are not immune to developing these cancers, air pollution and other factors can also increase the risk of developing these cancers. Stay vigilant and stay healthy.
When to consult a doctor?
If you start to experience any of the symptoms, like breathing issues, especially if they persist for more than 2 weeks, then consult a healthcare provider immediately. Understand that early detection saves lives. Performing early screenings, including low-dose CT scans, can detect these cancers in its earliest, most treatable stages.
Consult Today
Lung cancer is a serious health condition, but early detection can save lives. Understanding its types and paying attention to subtle warning signs. as these can empower people with high risk factors and patients to take proactive steps towards their health.
Whether you or any loved ones of yours are experiencing constant respiratory issues, coughs, and other symptoms, do not ignore them. Seek immediate medical attention without fail. Awareness and early detection can remain the best tools against cancer.
At Oncare, we offer premium-quality cancer treatments, including advanced cancer surgeries at an affordable price range with an experienced cancer specialist consultation.
If you or any loved ones of yours are diagnosed with cancer, then visit Oncare Cancer Center and book an appointment with our experienced cancer specialist today! Get an estimated cost of your cancer treatments today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the symptoms of lung cancer, including:
- A cough that doesn’t get better
- Trouble breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Wheezing
- Blood in the cough
- Hoarseness
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Sudden fatigue and weakness
- Shoulder pain
- Swelling in the face, neck, arms and upper chest
- Horner’s syndrome
Here are some of the risk factors for lung cancer, including:
- Exposure to secondhand smoke
- Exposure to toxic substances like radon, asbestos, uranium,
- Previous radiation exposure
- Family history of lung cancer
- Smoking habits
Here are some of the tests used to diagnose lung cancer, including:
- Blood tests
- Imaging
- Biopsy
- Needle biopsy
- Bronchoscopy
- Thoracoscopy
- Thoracentesis
- Endobronchial ultrasound
- Mediastinoscopy
- Molecular tests
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