Lung Cancer Specialist

What are signs that I may have lung cancer?

Lung cancer is tricky as it doesn’t usually show any symptoms in the early stages. You often don’t notice the cancer until it progresses and causes:

• A new, but chronic, cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Hoarseness
• Coughing up blood
• Weight loss without trying
  
  

Bone pain and headache may accompany the chest pain and cough.

Does smoking cause lung cancer?

Although people who’ve never smoked can develop lung cancer, smokers are at greatest risk. The longer you’ve smoked and the greater the number of cigarettes you’ve smoked, the higher your risk of developing lung cancer.

Smoking damages the cells that line the lungs. When you inhale cigarette smoke, which contains cancer-causing substances, your lungs start to change almost right away. Repeated exposure means you develop damage that your body just can’t repair.

If you quit smoking, even if you’ve smoked a long time, you can notably reduce your risk of lung cancer.

What are the types of lung cancer?

There are two general types of lung cancer:

Small cell lung cancer

This type is less common and usually afflicts heavy smokers.

Non-small cell lung cancer

This overarching term refers to several types of lung cancer, including adenocarcinoma, large cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

How is lung cancer evaluated?

At CPI Physicians, your doctor may perform the following if they suspect you have lung cancer:

• Imaging tests, such as a chest X-ray or CT scan
• Biopsy of suspicious cells
• Examination of sputum, or phlegm, under a microscope
  
  

If you’re diagnosed with lung cancer, your doctor determines the extent of any spread to decide on appropriate treatment. You may undergo bone scans and an MRI, among other tests.

How is lung cancer treated?

Treatment depends on the extent of your cancer and whether it’s spread. You may be a candidate for surgery to remove the diseased portion of the lung if your disease is isolated to the lungs.

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be performed in addition to or instead of surgery. Targeted drug therapy can be helpful for those with certain genetic mutations or for those with advanced or recurrent cancer.

Lung cancer is a serious diagnosis. Trust the skilled and caring providers at CPI Physicians to manage your diagnosis and care. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online.