Lung cancer is a type of cancer that affects the lungs and surrounding tissue. It is generally classified as either small cell or non-small cell lung cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, each year 196,687 people are diagnosed with lung cancer and 159,217 succumb to the disease. Many people are diagnosed with lung cancer, receive treatment and then go into remission. They need to watch for certain signs that may indicate the cancer has recurred or returned.
Shortness of Breath
One of the initial signs that lung cancer may have returned is a change in breathing patterns. This means shortness of breath with no underlying medical causes. The shortness of breath can occur even when the patient is at rest. This could mean that the cancer has returned and a tumor is pressing on the lung or area surrounding the lungs. Having an exam through a physician or oncologist is recommended. They may use a chest X-Ray, PET scan, MRI or lung biopsy to rule out a recurrence.
Lumps
Finding a lump or change anywhere on the body may signify a possible recurrence. A lump or change in appearance anywhere in the chest or upper area of the body may indicate the presence of a new tumor or signify that an existing tumor may be growing or spreading. Lumps can occur in the neck, armpits and groin area and signify that the cancer may have spread to the lymphatic system. When cancer has spread to distant organs or areas outside of the original tumor area, it means that the cancer has metastasized. It has moved from outside its original site and spread through the blood stream to create new tumors or new clusters of cancer cells.
Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss can occur as cancer begins to invade other areas of the body. In some cases, the cancer attacks vital organs and affects their overall function--causing a significant drop in weight. Any sudden weight loss should be evaluated by an oncologist. A test that analyzes a patient's phlegm cells under a microscope helps doctors detect early stages of recurrence before a tumor is visible on film or through diagnostic testing.
