It is projected by the National Cancer Institute that lung cancer will cause an estimated 150,000 deaths in the U.S. in 2010. This disease occurs when abnormal cells begin to grow rapidly within the lungs. Anyone who experiences any of the effects of lung cancer should seek medical care immediately to ensure receipt of prompt treatment.
Breathing Difficulties
The primary effect of lung cancer is difficulty breathing. Cancerous cell growth along the respiratory tract can inflame and irritate the tubes that carry oxygen into the lungs. When this occurs, it can be harder for the body to get oxygen to the lungs. As a result, patients with lung cancer can experience effects such as shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing, explains MayoClinic.com. Certain patients may also cough up mucus that contains blood due to lung damage caused by cancer. These symptoms typically become worse as the cancer progresses.
Chest Pain
Inflammation of the lungs due to cancerous cell growth can contribute to sensations of pain within a patient's chest. Affected patients may experience sharp, achy or dull sensations of chest pain, reports UpToDate, a peer-reviewed medical information website for patients. Chest pain can be uncomfortable and may feel worse when a patient attempts to inhale normally. Any patient who experiences chest pain should seek medical care, as this effect of lung cancer can also be a sign of a heart attack.
Recurrent Lung Infection
Lung damage caused by cancer cell growth can interfere with the normal function of these organs. Patients with lung cancer can experience difficulty clearing mucus and bacteria from the lungs. As a result, patients with this disease are at an increased risk of developing recurrent lung infections, such as pneumonia, explains the National Cancer Institute. Frequent lung infections can cause additional symptoms, including fever, breathing difficulties, body aches, headache or weight loss. Patients who develop persistent or recurrent lung infections should consult a doctor for further evaluation and care.
Hoarseness
Airway inflammation caused by lung cancer can result in vocal changes in certain patients. Affected patients may notice that their voice sounds unusually hoarse or raspy, reports MayoClinic.com. These vocal changes can make it difficult for affected patients to speak clearly at a normal volume. Hoarseness may also be accompanied by sore throat or chest discomfort in affected patients. Patients who experience persistent hoarseness should consult a physician for further care.
