A Constant Cough From Smoking: About Lung Cancer & Getting It Treated
Posted on: 9 May 2015
Are you a smoker who has a cough that doesn't go away? The steady cough may be due to you experiencing a symptom of lung cancer, which requires prompt medical attention before the problem becomes worse. In this article, learn about lung cancer and why neck surgery may be necessary when it is treated.
How Does Smoking Cause Lung Cancer?
Smoking is harmful because it can cause severe damage to the cells that line your lungs. Your body is able to naturally repair cell damage to the lungs, but it becomes harder when you are constantly inhaling smoke. After some time, the cells can begin to malfunction and cause lung cancer. The reason for cells malfunctioning is due of the high level of carcinogens that the smoke contains, which smoking on a daily basis means your cells are always exposed to the carcinogens. Even being around someone who smokes can lead to you getting lung cancer if the smoke is inhaled.
The constant cough may be due to an accumulation of cells forming a tumor. As the tumor becomes larger, it can interfere with your breathing. The cancerous cells can also end up spreading to other areas of your body if you are not treated fast enough. A few of the other symptoms of lung cancer include:
- Chest pain
- Painful bones
- Feeling hoarse
- Severe headaches
- Difficulty breathing
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood coming up when you cough
A specialist may have to remove a portion or an entire lung that has the cancerous tumor. In some cases, a specialist will have to remove a portion of the tumor, adjacent lymph nodes and a little of your normal lung tissue. After the cancer is removed, you may have to undergo a tracheostomy to help with easier breathing.
What is a Tracheostomy?
A tracheostomy involves a specialist creating an opening in your neck so the trachea can be accessed. He or she will insert a tube inside the trachea to create an airway so you can breathe easier after your lung surgery. During neck surgery, you will be placed under general anesthesia so you can fall unconscious until it is complete. A tracheostomy opening can be temporary or permanent, depending on your condition.
If your cough has become a lot worse than the usual smokers cough, you must find out if lung cancer is the cause. Make an appointment with a specialist to get diagnosed and treated! To learn more, visit a business like Cohen Angelique MD SC.
Share