Best Chest Specialist On The Risks Of Lung Cancer
Cancer in the lungs is one of the most common types of it. Like other types of cancer, lung carcinoma starts when the cells in the organ begin to divide uncontrollably. That spread to the tissues around.
There’s no doubt that those who smoke or chew tobacco have a five times higher risk of lung cancer than non-smokers. And the leading cause of death worldwide is related to this cancer type. Medical assistance from the best chest specialist in Siliguri provides optimal healing.
Understanding the Signs of Lung Cancer
Early-stage lung cancer may not show symptoms. Once the condition develops into a more advanced stage, you may notice signs like:
- Cough that doesn’t heal with time
- Hoarseness
- Chest discomfort/pain
- Shortness of breath/dyspnea
- Coughing up phlegm, blood
- Recurrent respiratory infections
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Weakness/fatigue
- Unintended weight loss
- Loss of appetite
Later stage symptoms
- Presence of lumps on neck/collarbone
- Back pain
- Trouble balancing
- Headaches
- Yellow skin, eyes
- Dizziness
- A numbing sensation in the arms, legs
- Droopy eyelid
- Swelling of the upper body, especially face
- Muscle weakness
- Confusion
- Seizures
- High blood pressure, sugar
What Increases the Risks?
Given below are factors that uplift the possibility of getting lung cancer:
Smoking
Smoking is a risk factor for a number of diseases. When you actively smoke for years, it may contribute to cell mutations. Chemicals used in tobacco products damage lung cells. These substances lead to the development of cancer.
Over time, these abnormal cells spread to other parts of the body. No safe level of smoking is there that can safeguard your health against complications. If you smoke, your chance of getting health issues is plenty.
Secondhand Smoke
Being around people who smoke often may accelerate your risk. Did you know the probability of health concerns increase with exposure to second-hand smoke? So, be attentive to this factor. Non-smokers have risks too.
Studies have shown the risk of developing lung cancer for people who do not smoke is around 20% to 30% due to passive smoking. Many studies have included that secondhand smoke can put one at risk of breast cancer, leukemia, brain tumors in kids, nasal sinus cavity cancer, et al.
Family History
A family history of lung cancer may put you at the same risk. However, it’s not fully understood. Regardless of gender or ethnicity, this is a risk factor. A faulty gene causing cancer is uncommon, though.
Here, environmental aspects have a role. If the members of the family smoke, the exposure to secondhand smoke can be alarming for an individual belonging to that family. Since it’s only a risk factor, with lifestyle improvements you can easily fight it.
Previous Radiation Therapy
Receiving previous radiation therapy to the chest might be associated with the risk of lung cancer. Immunity after cancer treatment takes time to revive. If you smoke or your lifestyle choices are not healthy enough, the chances can be high. You might book an appointment with the top doctor pulmonologist in Siliguri city for lung cancer healing.
Depending on how far cancer reaches, you receive treatments. In order to determine the condition, specialists go for – a physical exam, imaging tests, bronchoscopy, biopsy, microscopic examination of sputum or PET. Medical care may comprise surgery in combination with cancer therapy.