Lung cancer refers to a type of cancer that begins in the lungs, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you have lung cancer, you may experience a chronic cough, unexplained weight loss or wheezing. According to the Merck Manual, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in men and women.
Trouble Breathing
According to the Mayo Clinic, cancer cells can form tumors in your lungs and block your airways. Fluid can then accumulate in your lungs making it difficult for your lungs to expand. This may require more effort on your part to obtain adequate airflow.
Atelectasis
Lung tumors (collection of abnormal cells) can block your airways and cause your lungs to collapse. According to the Merck Manual, this is called atelectasis. With atelectasis, you may experience increased bouts of shortness of breath.
Hemoptysis
The Mayo Clinic states that lung cancer can lead to hemoptysis (coughing up blood). In some instances, this bleeding can be profuse but treatment options are available to stop the bleeding.
Pleural Effusion
The Merck Manual states that pleural effusions are the result of fluid-filled lung cancer cells seeping into the pleural space. The pleural space is located between your lungs and chest cavity.
Pain
The Mayo Clinic states that advanced forms of lung cancer can cause increasing amounts of debilitating pain if the cancer spreads to the thin lining of your lungs. Pain can be mild, intermittent or constant and various treatments are available to alleviate this pain.
Horner's Syndrome
Lung cancer may extend and affect the nerves (fibers that control your muscle movements) in your neck. This can result in a condition called Horner's Syndrome characterized by a droopy eyelid, sunken eye, pinpoint pupils and decreased sweating on one side of your face, according to the Merck Manual.
Metastasis
The Mayo Clinic states that lung cancer has the potential to metastasize (spread) to other parts of your body, such as your brain, liver or bones. Metastasis of your lung cancer can lead to such symptoms as nausea, pain and headaches.
Pancoast Tumor
Lung cancer can also form lumps at the top part of your lungs called pancoast tumors. These tumors can invade your arm and lead to arm numbness, pain and weakness.
Death
Unfortunately, metastatic lung cancer can lead to death despite aggressive treatments. The Mayo Clinic states that people diagnosed at an early stage of lung cancer have a greater chance of surviving than people diagnosed at later stages.
