Oral Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Coping
Lung Cancer Symptoms: What You Should Know
Most of the time, lung cancer has no symptoms in its early stages. Your lungs don't have many nerve endings, so a tumor can start to grow there without causing pain. You may not notice the signs until your cancer has begun to spread.
When signs of the disease start to appear, they can include:
These problems usually happen because of blocked breathing passages or because the cancer has spread farther into the lung, nearby areas, or other parts of the body.
Early-stage lung cancer often has few symptoms. When it's caught early, it's usually because the patient had a screening. (Photo Credit: E+/Getty Images)
Stage I lung cancer symptoms
This early stage of lung cancer often doesn't cause any symptoms. Stage I lung cancer is more likely to be caught because you had a screening, not because you noticed anything wrong. If you do have symptoms, they may include:
Stage IV lung cancer symptoms
When your cancer reaches this stage, it has begun to spread to more spots in your lungs, the fluid around your lungs, or other places in your body. In addition to respiratory symptoms such as coughing and wheezing, you may have:
Less common lung cancer symptoms
Some symptoms affect parts of your body that don't seem related to to your lungs. Those signs include:
Lung cancer symptoms on the skin
In addition to sweating issues caused by Horner syndrome, lung cancer can cause other issues with your skin. They include:
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among all genders. Lung cancer rates are falling across the board, but the decline hasn't been as big for younger women. Experts aren't sure why this is happening. Genetic mutations may play a role. Lung cancer has traditionally been associated with older men who have a history of smoking, so doctors may not suspect lung cancer at first when a nonsmoking young woman comes in with general symptoms such as cough or frequent respiratory infections.
There are two main types of lung cancer: small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). NSCLC is more common and makes up about 85% of all lung cancer cases. Within NSCLC, there are three subtypes:
There are two types of SCLC, mainly based on the type of cells involved and how they look under a microscope: small-cell carcinoma and mixed small-cell/large-cell cancer. It's sometimes called combined small-cell lung cancer. SCLC is strongly linked to cigarette smoking.
Both SCLC and NSCLC have many symptoms in common: cough, chest pain, wheezing, and hoarseness, for instance.
Non-small-cell lung cancer symptoms
NSCLC is more likely than SCLC to cause Horner syndrome, the collection of symptoms that affects your pupil, eyelid, and sweating on one side of your face.
Small-cell lung cancer symptoms
This type tends to grow and spread more quickly to other parts of your body. That means it's more likely to produce symptoms, such as:
SCLC is more likely than NSCLC to cause hypercalcemia and interfere with your adrenal glands.
If you have any of these symptoms of lung disease, especially an ongoing cough, blood-streaked mucus, wheezing, hoarseness, or a lung infection that keeps coming back, see your doctor. You'll get a thorough checkup, and you may also get X-rays or other tests.
Go immediately to the emergency room if you have any of the following:
In its early stages, lung cancer often has no symptoms. If you're coughing up mucus (especially if it's streaked with blood), have wheezing, hoarseness, chest pain, or frequent cases of bronchitis or pneumonia, these can be signs of lung cancer. Many of the symptoms of SCLS and NSCLC are the same. Those symptoms can also be signs of other illnesses. It's important to talk to your doctor if you have concerns.
How long can you have lung cancer without knowing?
Lung cancer can grow in your body for years before you start to notice symptoms.
Is cancer in the lungs curable?
Experts generally don't use the word "cured" when it comes to lung cancer. They're more likely to say you're in "remission" or that your body shows "no evidence of disease" (NED). At 5 years or more of remission or NED, your doctor might consider you cured. The earlier your cancer is found and you begin treatment, the better your outcome is likely to be. That's why experts have begun to encourage lung cancer screening for certain people at higher risk. You may want to look into the benefits of screening if you meet these requirements:
How long can you live with lung cancer?
How long you'll live depends on many factors, including:
The survival rates for lung cancer have been increasing with the development of new treatments.
Signs And Symptoms Of Popcorn Lung
Medically reviewed by Isabel Casimiro, MD, PhD
Bronchiolitis obliterans, commonly known as "popcorn lung," is a rare lung disease that happens when the smallest airways in your lungs (called bronchioles) become irreversibly inflamed and scarred. Damage to the bronchioles disrupts normal airflow in and out of your lungs, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, a dry cough, and wheezing. These symptoms often get worse with exercise or physical activities.
Symptoms of popcorn lung develop gradually over weeks or months as the airways narrow and reduce oxygen supply to the lungs. Over time, inflammation and scarring of the bronchioles can worsen, making breathing increasingly difficult and affecting your day-to-day life. Early diagnosis and treatment of popcorn lung can help slow the progression of the disease and may ease the severity of your symptoms.
Dry CoughA chronic, persistent dry cough is one of the most common symptoms of popcorn lung. Coughs that last for eight weeks or less are usually a symptom of a respiratory infection (e.G., the common cold) and go away after some time. A popcorn lung cough is ongoing and may worsen over time or when you exercise or engage in physically demanding activities, such as yard work.
Shortness of BreathShortness of breath is a hallmark symptom of popcorn lung. You may notice you are out of breath or have difficulty breathing during exercise or everyday tasks like climbing stairs or walking. While shortness of breath may be subtle at first, it can worsen as your condition progresses. Eventually, you may also notice a feeling of "air hunger," which occurs when you can't take a deep breath even when resting.
WheezingWheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound from your airways that can happen while you breathe. It's most common to hear wheezing when you exhale, but it can also occur during inhalation and may worsen with physical activity. With popcorn lung, wheezing is a sign of inflammation, swelling, and mucus build-up in the bronchioles.
FatigueFatigue is a lack of energy and tiredness that persists even when you get enough rest. Popcorn lung causes your body to work harder to breathe. Damage to the bronchioles can mean your body and brain aren't getting enough oxygen to function properly, which can also contribute to exhaustion. With fatigue, it's common to experience weakness, brain fog, and irritability.
Skin RashPeople who develop popcorn lung due to exposure to certain chemical toxins, such as diacetyl (a chemical used in food flavorings) may develop skin irritation or a skin rash. The affected skin may appear red, feel warm, be itchy, or have bumps that form into blisters—depending on the severity of the rash.
Symptoms in ChildrenWhile adults more commonly develop popcorn lung due to exposure to toxins or underlying rheumatic diseases (e.G., rheumatoid arthritis), children can sometimes develop the condition as a complication of a severe respiratory infection, such as pneumonia or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This condition is known as post-infectious bronchiolitis obliterans.
Symptoms of popcorn lung in children are similar to those in adults and may include:
When to Contact a Healthcare ProviderPopcorn lung is a serious respiratory (lung-related) condition. If you have any persistent symptoms of popcorn lung such as a chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, or fatigue that doesn't go away with rest, it's essential to see your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
In some cases, popcorn lung can cause more severe symptoms. Seek emergency medical care or call 911 if you or a loved one develop any of the following symptoms:
Chest pain
Rapid breathing
Fever
Sweating
Fast or irregular heartbeat
Difficulty talking or breathing
Confusion or disorientation
Slurred speech
Loss of consciousness
When visiting your healthcare provider with concerns about popcorn lung, preparing a list of questions can be helpful before your appointment. Here are some questions to consider:
Are there any other conditions that could be causing my fatigue?
What specific tests will I need to confirm a diagnosis of popcorn lung?
What treatments are currently available for popcorn lung?
Are there any lifestyle changes or medications that can help me manage my chronic cough?
If I receive a diagnosis for popcorn lung, what can I do to slow the progression of the disease?
Bronchiolitis obliterans, or "popcorn lung," causes scarring and narrowing of the smallest airways leading to your lungs (bronchioles). The damage to the lungs with this condition cannot be reversed. Symptoms include chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and fatigue, which may worsen with exercise. Popcorn lung is a chronic, progressive disease and symptoms can worsen over time. Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow disease progression and reduce symptoms.
Frequently Asked QuestionsDoes popcorn lung go away?
Popcorn lung, or bronchiolitis obliterans, is a chronic condition that does not go away and can worsen over time. There is no cure for popcorn lung, but treatments can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
Can vaping cause popcorn lung?
Vaping with e-cigarettes introduces toxic chemicals into your lungs and airways, which can increase your risk of lung conditions like popcorn lung. Quitting can help improve lung function and prevent long-term damage.
What does a popcorn lung cough sound like?
The popcorn lung cough is typically dry, persistent, and worsens during physical activity or exertion. While not every dry cough is a sign of popcorn lung, it's a good idea to see a healthcare provider if you have a chronic cough that lasts for eight weeks or longer.
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Is Shoulder Pain A Symptom Of Lung Cancer?
It's possible for shoulder pain to be an early indicator of some types of lung cancer. If the pain is caused by a tumor, it will usually be accompanied by other symptoms of lung cancer.
You may typically associate shoulder pain with a physical injury. It's often caused by something like an injury, tendonitis, or arthritis. That said, it can also be a symptom of lung cancer, and it may be the first noticeable symptom.
Lung cancer can cause shoulder pain in different ways, including tumor growth and pinched nerves.
Read on to learn about the types of lung cancer that can cause shoulder pain.
A Pancoast tumor is a rare form of lung cancer. Shoulder pain is its primary symptom, as well as pain in the inner arm and the hand. These symptoms are very specific and referred to as Pancoast syndrome.
A Pancoast tumor is located at the top of the lung, where it can pinch certain nerves. This can cause pain that radiates to the upper back and arms, including the shoulders.
It does not cause the usual symptoms of lung cancer like cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath. The name refers to the location of the tumor, which is typically non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) like adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma
Pancoast tumors are rare, accounting for between 3-5% of lung cancer cases.
Pancoast tumors can also lead to a cluster of symptoms referred to as Horner's syndrome, which can include shoulder pain.
But, the more defining symptoms involve the eye and result from damage to the sympathetic nerves leading from the brain to the face and eyes.
Tumors in the lung or chest are not the only cause of Horner's syndrome. It can result from a large number of conditions that damage the nerve fibers leading to the face and eyes.
About 5% of cases are congenital, meaning they occur at birth. The cause of these cases is thought to be genetic but can also be related to things like physical trauma or stroke.
Malignant mesothelioma is a cancer that starts in the mesothelium, which is the lining around certain organs. When the affected lining is in the chest surrounding the lungs, the cancer is called pleural mesothelioma.
The main risk factor for pleural mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. The number of cases has been dropping in the United States during the past two decades, but there are still about 3,000 new cases each year.
In one study, about 14% of the participants reported shoulder pain as the first symptom of mesothelioma.
According to the National Cancer Institute, more than one-half of lung cancer diagnoses are made at the advanced stage when cancer has spread (metastasized) beyond the lung.
This is called metastatic or advanced lung cancer, classified as stage 4.
Metastatic lung cancer can, in rare cases, also cause shoulder pain. If shoulder pain does occur, it can be a signal that lung cancer has spread and damaged your muscles as well.
Shoulder pain from lung cancer is quite similar to other forms of shoulder pain. Because of this, it might be difficult to determine the cause of your shoulder pain.
If you've recently fallen or injured your shoulder in some way, lung cancer is unlikely to be the cause of your shoulder pain. There are many reasons for shoulder pain that aren't lung cancer.
Lung cancer is more likely to be the cause of your pain if you're a smoker, and your pain:
Your shoulder pain is also more likely to be a symptom of lung cancer if you have other lung cancer symptoms as well.
People who have shoulder pain from lung cancer often describe it as radiating pain from the shoulder down their arms to their hands. There may also be numbness or tingling. At other times, it can feel like a deep ache.
Lung cancer frequently causes chest pain as well. Sometimes, this chest pain is a result of bouts of coughing.
In other cases, the pain of lung cancer is a result of a large tumor pressing on other structures or growing into the chest wall and ribs.
Tumors in the lungs can also press on blood vessels and lymph nodes. That causes a buildup of fluid in the lining of the lung, and it can cause pain or shortness of breath.
As mentioned, if you have shoulder pain, the odds are you don't have lung cancer. A variety of health conditions cause shoulder pain, including:
Your doctor's first step in treating your shoulder pain will be to pinpoint its cause. Your doctor will first review your symptoms with you. They'll then likely order various tests to explore possible causes.
Treatment for shoulder pain from lung cancerIf your doctor suspects lung cancer, they'll order imaging tests like a CT or PET scan. They may also want to take tissue for a lung biopsy.
Doctors can perform lung biopsies in two different ways. They may pass a needle through the skin to your lungs and remove a small amount of tissue. This is called a needle biopsy.
Alternatively, your doctor may use bronchoscopy to perform the biopsy. In this case, your doctor inserts a small tube with an attached light through your nose or mouth and into your lungs to remove a small tissue sample.
If cancer cells are found, your doctor may conduct a genetic test to determine the type of lung cancer and possible underlying causes.
If you have lung cancer, your doctor may use a variety of treatments based on your specific circumstances, including chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted drugs.
Doctors will often use more than one method to treat lung cancer. For example, they might prescribe chemotherapy or radiation to shrink a tumor before surgery. They may also try a different method if the first one doesn't work.
Scientists are exploring new treatment options for lung cancer that offer hope for better outcomes. Two of the most promising ones are gene therapy and immunotherapy.
Treatment for shoulder pain from other causesIf your shoulder pain isn't due to lung cancer, it's important to determine the cause. This will help your doctor come up with a treatment plan.
For example, they may recommend physical therapy if you have shoulder pain due to tendonitis.
If you have shoulder pain due to a frozen shoulder (a symptom of diabetes), your doctor may recommend a combination of glucose-lowering drugs and a low carbohydrate diet.
You can manage shoulder pain properly if you deal with its underlying cause. If your doctor diagnoses you with lung cancer, it's important to get the best treatment available.
You can try home treatments for your shoulder pain while you're waiting to see your doctor:
Most forms of shoulder pain aren't symptoms of lung cancer. But shoulder pain is a commonly overlooked symptom of lung cancer.
If you experience shoulder pain and have other symptoms of lung cancer or are at high risk for it, don't delay in speaking with your doctor.
Early diagnosis is the key to getting effective treatment for lung cancer.
How long should my shoulder hurt before going to the hospital?This can really depend on the cause and severity of your pain, but generally, if your pain is severe and doesn't improve in two weeks, or you are having problems moving your shoulder or arm, go to the emergency room.
Can lung cancer start with shoulder pain?Shoulder pain can be an early symptom of mesothelioma.
What are the first signs of lung cancer?Early lung cancer signs may include:
Usually, shoulder pain is caused by something like a physical injury, a strain, or arthritis. But, in some cases, it can be a sign of lung cancer.
Different types of lung cancer can cause shoulder pain in different ways. Sometimes, it can be the first sign that something is wrong.
If your pain isn't going away despite various home remedies, or your pain is severe, see a doctor to determine the cause.
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