Lung cancer is the third most common cancer type and the main cause of cancer-related deaths in America. Smoking is a common risk factor, but not every lung cancer patient has a history of smoking. Lung cancer is fatal. Thankfully, the Lung Cancer Orange County Center carries effective diagnoses and treatments that help treat the condition. This blog explains everything you need to know about lung cancer.
What is Lung Cancer?
Normally, healthy cells die at a certain age in their life cycle, hence preventing the buildup of excess cells. In cancer, cells grow rapidly, leading to tumors.
Mainly, there are two types of lung carcinomas — small-cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. Anyone can develop cancer. But smoking and exposure to inhaled chemicals, smoke, and other toxins increase the risk.
Symptoms
They may include:
- Swelling in the face and neck veins
- Trouble swallowing
- Weight loss for unknown reasons
- Loss of appetite
- Hoarseness
- Blood in sputum
- Wheezing
- Trouble breathing
- Chest pain or discomfort
- A persistent cough
Diagnosis
Here are the recommendable diagnostic tests by Lung Cancer Center in Orange County:
Imaging Tests
An X-ray, an MRI, a CT, or a PET scan help reveal parts of lung tissue with cancer. If cancer has spread, such tests help reveal bones and other organ changes. An X-ray, a CT, an MRI, or a PET scan might reveal areas of lung tissue with cancer.
Tissue Sampling
Your doctor might take a biopsy sampling to check for cancer cells. They easily do this with a bronchoscope. This tool is used to look for lesions and take samples too.
Other samples
A laboratory test can reveal whether or not cancer is present in the:
- Blood
- Sputum
- Pleural effusion
This information helps confirm if the cancer is present and, if present, it determines its stage and type.
Treatment
Lung cancer treatment depends on various factors including:
- The stage and location
- The type of cancer
- The patient’s overall health
Notably, all treatment options have side effects. So, consult your physician about the best suitable option for you. Some treatment options include:
- Chemotherapy– a drug treatment that helps kill cancer cells
- Surgery to remove the infected parts
- Radiation therapy – uses high rays that kill cancerous cells
- Palliative therapy – includes oxygen therapy, and pain relief to help manage the symptoms
- Immunotherapy – helps fight cancer cells
- Radiofrequency ablation – involves the insertion of a thin needle that uses electric current to kill cancer cells
Summary
Lung cancer centers in Orange County recommend people at a high risk of developing lung cancer undertake regular lung cancer screening. This helps detect early symptoms and allows for treatment before it spreads. If you’re concerned about the risks of lung cancer, seek guidance from your physician immediately.
