You would be surprised to know that lung cancer is the leading cause for maximum number of deaths caused by cancer in the United States when compared to other types of cancers put together. Often, the symptoms of lung cancer in women go unnoticed until the condition gets worse. One of the most common causes attributed to lung cancer in women is smoking tobacco. Other causes include exposure to radon, arsenic, asbestos, chromium, nickel, soot and secondhand smoke. Women who do not smoke are equally at risk of developing this deadly form of cancer mostly due to accidental exposure to the above mentioned substances.
Common Symptoms of Lung Cancer in Women
Being aware of the most common symptoms can help you to detect the warning signs in the early stages. Treating cancer in its early stages also helps in better recovery and prevents it from spreading to other parts. Some of the common symptoms include:
- Chronic smoker’s cough
- Pain in the chest, shoulder and back
- Difficulty in breathing and wheezing
- Cough that doesn’t go away even after 2 weeks
- Blood in the sputum
- Repeated bouts of bronchitis, pneumonia and other respiratory infections
- Loss of appetite
- Drastic weight loss
- Fatigue
Apart from the symptoms mentioned above, headache, blood clots, bleeding, bone fractures and pain may be symptoms of the cancer spreading to other body parts.
In case you notice these symptoms or suspect that someone you know has lung cancer, consult your doctor immediately. Some of the symptoms are common for other health complications too. So the doctor may ask you to undergo certain tests and scans to confirm whether it is lung cancer or not. Early detection means a better chance of survival. Being aware and spreading awareness might just save a life.
