Trouble Breathing? 5 Reasons to Get Checked for Lung Cancer

Cancer can feel like an unknown and dangerous enemy ruthlessly attacking your body. It can result in arduous and severe bouts of pain, and in many unfortunate instances, the loss of a loved one. According to the CDC, lung cancer is the third most common type of cancer in the United States.

Therefore, it remains crucial that this disease be taken with the utmost seriousness. In many cases, it is important to get checked for lung cancer, especially if you are maintaining certain lifestyle choices and habits.

Lung Cancer Symptoms: What Are They?

There are many different symptoms of lung cancer. Of these, some are treatable, while others are not.

Shortness of Breath

One of the most common lung cancer symptoms is dyspnea. This occurs when you can not get proper airflow to your lungs. You may feel like your chest is tightening as it becomes increasingly more difficult to take a full breath.

Chest Pains

As breathing continues to feel straining, people with lung cancer can suffer from various levels of chest pains. Thankfully, doctors can assist with pain management by prescribing specific medications.

In Worst Cases, Cancer Spreads Outside the Lungs

One of the most severe symptoms occurs when cancer spreads further than your lungs. This is known as metastasis. Unfortunately, if this were to happen, the cancer is most likely incurable. In this direst scenario, the most a doctor can do is prescribe medication and treatment. This could briefly increase your lifespan.

What are the Risks and Signs of Lung Cancer?

If you have experienced any of these signs of lung cancer, it’s vital to get screened. In addition to these signs and symptoms, the following risks are associated with an increased chance of lung cancer.

You Are a Smoker

By far, the leading cause of lung cancer is smoking. Your chances of getting lung cancer increase exponentially if you smoke cigarettes.

According to the CDC, about 80 to 90 percent of all lung cancer deaths are related to smoking. In addition, the number of cigarettes you smoke and the rate you smoke are also significant.

Therefore, if you want to prevent being diagnosed with lung cancer, it is imperative that you quit smoking. You may not only be saving your own life but the lives of your family members as well.

You Have Had Exposure to Secondhand Smoke

If you involuntarily inhale smoke from tobacco products, you may also be at risk of health complications. People who have family members who smoke are the highest-risk demographic for this. It should be made clear that there is no safe amount of secondhand smoke. This is why the majority of public places no longer allow smoking.

You Have a Family History of Lung Cancer

A genetic predisposition increases the likelihood of developing small-cell lung cancer. Typically, this is caused by smoking. By not smoking in the first place, you can prevent this from happening.

You Have Had Exposure to Radon Gas

Radon is an invisible and odorless gas that is released from soil and water. It can be built up in houses through the air, particularly from the basement. If you have been exposed to large quantities of radon gas, you may be at risk of lung cancer. This diagnosis may occur several years after your first exposure.

You Have Had Exposure to Carcinogens

If you have been exposed to high amounts of arsenic, asbestos, and cadmium, you may have an increased chance of developing lung cancer.

When To See A Doctor

If you are concerned about lung cancer, contact us at BASS Cancer Center. Our team of in-house doctors would love to treat you to the fullest of their abilities. Give us a call at 925-433-8786, or message us on our website.