What does shortness of breath signal for lung cancer risks

Author: Zhang Huanhuan, Chief Nurse in the Department of Thoracic Surgery at the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. Wang Hui, Head Nurse of the Thoracic Surgery Department at the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. Liu Lu, Nurse in the Thoracic Surgery Department at the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. Review: Zhang Na, Deputy Chief Nurse of the Thoracic Surgery Department at the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences.

Shortness of breath signals lung cancer in smokers; low-dose CT screening and breathlessness diaries aid in early detection and treatment.

Climbing two flights of stairs leaves you feeling out of breath, and many people assume it's simply due to poor physical fitness. However, when this shortness of breath persists, worsens, or is accompanied by a mild cough, it may indicate that your lungs are in distress.

In medicine, it is referred to as 'dyspnea' or 'shortness of breath,' characterized by the subjective sensation of 'not being able to take a deep breath' or 'not having enough air.' Normal individuals may experience breathlessness after intense exercise, but it typically alleviates after resting for 3 to 5 minutes. In contrast, tumor-related shortness of breath is often progressive, occurring with decreasing levels of activity, and may even occur at rest.

Why does lung cancer cause shortness of breath?

1) Tumor obstructing the airway. The bronchus is partially obstructed by a mass or secretions, leading to reduced fresh air entering the alveoli, resulting in a sensation of 'difficulty in breathing.'

2) Pleural effusion (lung 'water accumulation'). Tumors stimulate the pleura to produce fluid, causing the lungs to become 'compressed' by the fluid, which limits lung expansion and results in significant shortness of breath during activity.

3) Decreased elasticity of lung tissue. Tumors can replace normal alveoli or be associated with obstructive pneumonia, reducing the effective gas exchange area and lowering blood oxygen levels. The body compensates by increasing respiration, leading to a feeling of 'dyspnea.'

4) Merge with other lung diseases. Lung cancer patients often have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pulmonary fibrosis; the combination of these two conditions can lead to more severe shortness of breath.

In any of the above situations, you should seek medical attention promptly.

How is 'shortness of breath' differentiated from other diseases? For individuals over 40 years old who have smoked 20 pack-years or more, if they recently experience 'shortness of breath for no apparent reason,' low-dose CT screening for lung cancer should be considered first.

Common Non-Pharmaceutical Methods to Relieve Shortness of Breath include (1) pulmonary rehabilitation exercises: pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing for 10-15 minutes each day. Energy-saving tips such as taking a seated shower and keeping frequently used items within easy reach. (3) Home oxygen therapy: long-term oxygen therapy may prolong survival. (4) Life advice: quit smoking, avoid exposure to cooking fumes and going out on heavily polluted days, and get vaccinated for influenza and pneumonia to reduce acute exacerbations.

Three Action Lists for Readers: (1) Keep a 'Shortness of Breath Diary': record the time, triggers, and relief methods, and bring it to your doctor during your visits. For individuals over 40 who smoke, undergoing a low-dose CT scan annually can detect abnormalities earlier than waiting for symptoms to appear. If you experience a combination of coughing up blood, hoarseness, and weight loss, do not wait; directly make an appointment with the respiratory department or oncology department.

Breathing is something so ordinary; however, when it becomes frequent and laborious, don't just tough it out—get a CT scan and let your lungs reveal the truth.

Health Reminder: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or treatment. Please follow the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

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