The symptoms ofstage 1 lung cancerare often vague.
They may include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, and shoulder pain, among other signs.
For this reason,lung cancer screeningis crucial for those who are candidates for the test.
Illustration by Ellen Lindner for Verywell Health
In fact, a 2020 review found that 59% of people diagnosed with stage 1 lung cancer hadnosymptoms.
Stage 1 lung cancer is a small tumor that measures less than 5 centimeters across.
Most people with stage 1 lung cancer do not show symptoms.
The cough may worsen over time, but it is usually relatively gradual and can go unnoticed.
For those who smoke, a change in your “normal” cough may be the most important sign.
Even if it is only a small amount, however, this symptom should always be checked out.
Shoulder pain is very common in advanced lung cancer but can occur during stage 1 disease as well.
Due to its location, it can place pressure on nearby nerves that lead to the shoulder and arm.
They are the most common pop in in women and people who have never smoked.
If a lung cancer is growing near the airways, it may cause a partial obstruction.
This obstruction, in turn, increases the risk of recurrent respiratory infections such asbronchitisorpneumonia.
Wheezing
Wheezingsounds like a squeal from the lungs that occurs with exhaling.
Chest X-rays can be valuable in diagnosing lung cancer but miss up to 25% of tumors.
A computed tomography (CT) scan may be needed.
The important point is that the symptoms of lung cancer might not be readily attributable to the lungs.
How fast does lung cancer spread?
In some cases, these complications may be the first signs of lung cancer.
Roughly 20% of people who have lung cancer will experience hemoptysis at some time.
If this occurs, a person should call 911 rather than be driven to the hospital.
These clots can occur early in the disease and are sometimes the first symptom of lung cancer.
Depression: Up to 25% of people with lung cancer will experience clinical depression.
Symptoms of depression can include crying, but also anger and irritability.
Some people may feel a sense of hopelessness.
For most people, there will be a decreased interest in activities that were previously enjoyable.
Fortunately, treatment can be very effective.
The risk of suicide is also very real with lung cancer and is highest early on after a diagnosis.
It’s also important to seek help if you find yourself having thoughts of suicide.
Keep in mind that people who have never smoked can and do develop lung cancer.
Who Should Be Screened for Lung Cancer?
If you smoke or have smoked in the past, you may be a candidate for lung cancer screening.
Summary
The signs and symptoms of stage 1 lung cancer are often mild and vague.
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