The signs and symptoms of lung cancer in women can differ from those commonly seen in men.
Since these changes are subtle, a person may dismiss them as being due to inactivity or normal aging.
Lung cancer tends to be more advanced when diagnosed in women.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
Symptoms depend on the pop in of lung cancer causing them, as well.
Many of these tumors are very slow-growing tumors.
It’s estimated that around 20% of women are never smokers.
A 2019 study looking at young adults with lung cancer found that 70% were never smokers.
Frequent Symptoms
The most common symptoms of lung cancer in women are often vague and begin gradually.
In contrast, small cell lung cancer and squamous cell carcinomas are uncommon.
But in women, fatigue and shortness of breath usually occur first.
That said,cancer fatigue, or the fatigue associated with cancer, usually differs from ordinary tiredness.
Some people describe the sensation as “total body tiredness.”
Sometimes metastases weaken bones so that fractures (broken bones) occur with minimal trauma (pathologic fractures).
People may experiencepain with a deep breathwhich is often relatively sharp rather than dull.
In early-stage cancers, tumors that obstruct the airways are common.
As cancers progress, the rate of respiratory infections increases.
It may be dry or producesputum(phlegm, mucus coughed up from the airways).
It may be harsh and cause painful ribs or be barely noticeable.
It may be constant or come and go.
In some cases, symptoms of metastases are the only signs present at the time of diagnosis.
Hoarsenessmay occur if a lung tumor presses on nerves near the vocal cords.
A hoarse voice like this does not usually clear with coughing, and it gradually worsens.
Referred to asparaneoplastic syndromes, the symptoms can vary widely depending on the particular protein/hormone released.
If fluid builds up slowly, it can lead to shortness of breath, palpitations, and light-headedness.
Malignant pleural effusion:Fluid also commonly builds up between the membranes (pleura) that line the lungs.
In some cases, cancer cells are present in the fluid.
A stent can be placed in the airways to keep the airway open.
Spinal cord compression is a medical emergency as immediate treatment is needed to prevent permanent disability.
Reasons to see your healthcare provider include:
Perhaps the most important “symptom” is yourgut feeling.
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