Recognizing the Signs of Lung Cancer
Posted by Medical Fan - 23/12/08 at 08:12 amRecognizing the Signs of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer has become a big health concern for many people nowadays, particularly for those at risk. But short of going to a doctor, how can you tell if you or a loved one has this disease?
One of the most common signs of lung cancer is shortness of breath. You can tell this sign is present if you observe them closely and you see movement of their neck and chest muscles, as well as flaring of their nostrils, which suggest that extra effort is needed for them to breathe normally. You may also notice a bluish discoloration of the person’s nails, a sign that he or she is not getting enough oxygen.
Another common observation that may point to lung cancer is that they are often tired and may have lost a lot of weight. They may also have very little to no appetite or have difficulty swallowing.
In a small percentage of people, however, there may be no outward signs of lung cancer and the only way to tell is through a chest x-ray.
In the later stages of this disease, signs of lung cancer metastasis may be present. Depending on the area where it has spread, it can manifest itself in different ways. For example, if it has spread to the liver, you may notice some yellowing of the whites of the patient’s eyes as well as his or her skin.
While the signs mentioned above may point to a diagnosis of lung cancer, it is always best to consult with a doctor before concluding the worst since the only definitive way to diagnose lung cancer is through a biopsy.