Knowing the risk factors for lung cancer and what symptoms to watch out for can go a long way to making sure serious conditions are caught early. But some of the symptoms of lung cancer can seem mild and unimportant. If you have any concerns about some symptoms you're experiencing, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor. A simple chest X-ray can put your mind at ease.
The chest X-ray is the first step in diagnosis. If further investigation is necessary, your doctor may request a series of tests and scans, such as a CT scan or a spirometry, which will provide a clearer picture of the condition of your lungs. Your doctor may also request a sample of lung tissue, a procedure called a biopsy.
If results of these tests confirm a lung cancer diagnosis, it's important for your doctor to determine the stage of the cancer so they can determine the type of treatment that will be most effective for you.
At this point, you will probably have many questions racing through your mind and you may find it difficult to concentrate on what you need to know. Write down your questions to make sure you don't forget any. Family members may also have questions so try to talk with them, too.