7 Ways to Check if You Have Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a form of cancer that affects the functions of the lungs and causes several disturbing symptoms. Lung cancer is known to have a high risk of mortality. Early detection of this disease can help to improve prognosis and increase the patient’s chances of survival. Here are 7 ways that will help you check if you have lung cancer.

7. Recurring respiratory symptoms

If you are suffering from a chronic cough that persists for more than a few weeks, it could be a sign of lung cancer. This symptom is often accompanied by blood in sputum, breathing difficulties, chest pain, hoarseness of voice. [1]

6. Symptoms related to metastasis

If lung cancer has spread to other organs, it may lead to symptoms like excruciating pain in the bones, blurring of vision, seizures, and loss of sensation in some parts of the body. [2]

5. Risk factors

One of the effective ways to check if you have lung cancer is to find out the risk factors. The presence of multiple risk factors like smoking, repeated exposure to toxins and pollutants, and family history of lung cancer could increase your chances of developing this condition. [3]

4. Imaging tests

Imaging tests like an X-ray of your lungs could reveal the abnormal nodule or mass. A CT scan can also help to check if you have lung cancer. It will reveal the abnormal lesions in the lungs that often go undetected on X-rays. [4]

3. Sputum cytology

One of the best ways to check if you have lung cancer is to perform sputum cytology. This test involves testing the sputum in a laboratory under a microscope to detect the presence of cancer cells. [5]

2. Tissue sample

A biopsy performed to remove a sample of tissue from the lungs can help in confirming the diagnosis of lung cancers. The biopsy can be performed during bronchoscopy or mediastinoscopy. [6]

1. Thoracentesis

The build-up of fluid in the lungs and pleural cavity along with blood in sputum and breathlessness are the common signs of lung cancer. Testing of the fluid collected around the lungs for the presence of cancer cells can help to check if you have lung cancer. [7]