13 Unexpected Signs & Symptoms Of Lung Cancer In Male

As per the American Cancer Society, lung cancer is the leading cause of death in men both in America and worldwide. In 2021 about 235, 760 new cases emerged, and out of which 131, 880 resulted in deaths. 

Lung cancer starts with unexpected signs and symptoms that later become severe if not addressed early. Hence, it becomes important to address it at an early stage so that you can get treated well.

Here are 7 signs & symptoms of lung cancer in males to look for.

Lung Cancer Signs & Symptoms In Male

Coughing: Coughing that doesn’t vanish easily and with time it gets worse

Shortness of Breath: You may feel out of breath and tightness in the chest. Difficulty in breathing is obvious as you can’t get enough air.

Chest Pain: Chest pain that worsens with coughing, deep breathing, and laughing.

Wheezing: High-pitched whistling arises when you exhale.

Change in voice or Hoarseness: You may get hoarse i.e. your voice sounds raspy or strained. Hoarseness arises due to laryngitis and cold.

Weight: Lung cancer patients might lose or gain weight. The lung cancer tumor causes a hormone, ACTH that is responsible to make cortisol. In turn, cortisol causes weight gain and fluid retention.

Bone Pain: You may have bone pain or ache. Lung cancer is known to cause bone pain in large bones, pelvis, spine/back, and arms.

Digestive problems: People with lung cancer receive a high level of calcium that can cause nausea, constipation, and tummy aches.

Also Read: 10 Natural Home Remedies For Constipation | Constipation Home Remedies

Headaches: Headache is caused by a tumor available near the superior vena cava (a large vein that makes your head spin).

Dementia, Depression, or Anxiety: People with lung infection experience mental issues like dementia, depression, and anxiety.

Frequent Urination & Extreme Thirst: The exceeded level of calcium in your hypercalcemia cause extreme thirst & frequent urination.

Blood Clots: You are more likely to develop blood clots in the arms, legs, or lungs if you have lung cancer. Cancer can cause inflammation in the body as well.

Balance problems: You may lose your balance or feel unsteady if you suspect lung cancer. The tumor pumps up the blood back to the vein and can cause balance problems.

Swollen Breast in Male: it is a less common sign and symptom of lung cancer in the male. The tumor interferes with the man’s hormonal level and causes tenderness and swelling.

Possible Causes of Lung Cancer

1. Smoking

The no.1 cause of lung cancer is smoking. About 90% of cases register lung cancer due to smoking. A former smoker is less prone to lung cancer however if you are a chain smoker, the chances of getting lung cancer are high.

2. Particle Pollution

Particle pollution is a mix of liquid particles and tiny solid residues that is present in the surrounding. We might inhale it during breathing and this increases the risk of lung infection.

3. Genes

Genes play an important role in developing lung cancer. If you have a family history of lung cancer, you are at a higher risk.

4. Hazardous Chemicals

Any exposure to the hazardous chemical can pose a lung cancer risk. Materials like arsenic, asbestos, chromium, cadmium, uranium, and nickel are considered dangerous.

5. Radon

The 2nd largest cause of lung cancer is Radon. Radon is basically an odorless, colorless radioactive gas that exists in soil naturally. It can come up and enter building cracks and gaps.

Diagnosis

Doctors can successfully diagnose or treat lung cancer in males at an early stage. Prior treatment puts you in a better chance of living a lung cancer-free life.

The doctor starts with asking about your general health and looking for if there is any symptom. After, that the doctor performs a spirometry test or does a physical examination. Here is some of the test the doctor might suggest you take,

Imaging Test: A chest X-ray or CT scan of your chest is done to see any signs of lung cancer

Biopsy: The doctor might collect a sample of cells to analyze them in the lab. For this, a thin tube is inserted into your mouth or nose.

Sputum Cytology: During the examination, you are asked to cough up in sputum. The doctor then analyses it under a microscope.

The doctor can even recommend therapies like acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and massage to relieve stress, pain, and anxiety due to lung cancer.

Also Read: Mental Health: How To Deal With Anxiety At Home?