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Lung Cancer – Warning Signs, Risk Factors, Diagnosis, and Management

Lung Cancer – Warning Signs, Risk Factors, Diagnosis, and Management

Lung cancer is a condition where cancer cells originate in the respiratory organ. This disorder is one of the leading causes of cancer death across the globe. It is also the second most diagnosed cancer in the country. People who are overly exposed to smoke are at high risk of developing lung cancer. Read further to learn more about lung cancer, its symptoms, causes and risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Warning signs and symptoms
Many types of cancer, including lung cancer, do not show signs and symptoms in the early stages of the condition. Many individuals with lung cancer can only see signs during the advanced stages. Some common symptoms associated with lung cancer include persistent cough ,  coughing up blood, shortness of breath, breathing difficulty, chest pain, unexplained loss of body mass, bone pain, and headaches. One must consult a healthcare professional immediately if one notices any of these signs and symptoms. They will guide the future course of action. Individuals may also feel excessively tired or experience wheezing, along with other signs. However, in some instances, lung cancer can also lead to changes such as frequent bouts of pneumonia, enlarged lymph nodes, and more. But it is important to note that these symptoms may also occur with other diseases. It is why talking to a doctor is essential, as they can help determine the condition’s cause.

Causes
Though smoke is one of the leading causes of lung cancer, it can also affect those who do not have exposure to such factors. In such scenarios, doctors may be unable to pinpoint the exact trigger of lung cancer in the individual. Aside from certain unhealthy lifestyle habits, experts have also found that other factors could increase the risk of developing this condition.

Exposure to radon gas
Radon is a radioactive gas produced by the natural breakdown of uranium in soil or water. This gas eventually becomes part of the air that we breathe. However, radon can have a negative impact on a person’s health, and unsafe levels of this gas can lead to the development of lung cancer. Radon can accumulate in homes, buildings, and other places.

Exposure to asbestos
Many individuals working in construction or industrial projects are also exposed to many carcinogens. One such carcinogen is asbestos which has been linked to cancer development. People exposed to asbestos and other carcinogens, including arsenic, chromium, and nickel, are at a greater risk of lung cancer.

Genetics
People with a family history of lung cancer are also at high risk of developing the condition. Some inherited mutations raise a person’s risk of developing small cell lung cancer – an aggressive type of lung cancer.

Diagnosis
People at an increased risk of lung cancer should get tested often to ensure that the condition is detected early. Screening and testing may include low-dose CT scans. One can discuss with the therapist the best approach for testing and diagnosis. There are many ways to screen for lung cancer. The doctor can order several tests to look for cancerous cells in the body and rule out other illnesses.

Imaging
Imaging is one of the most common ways to diagnose lung cancer. Doctors may ask the individual to take an X-ray image of the lungs. It can help reveal if there is any unusual growth. They may also suggest getting a CT scan to reveal if there are any small lesions on the lungs that are not seen on the X-rays.

Biopsy
If the above tests indicate any growths or tumors, the doctors will remove a small amount of the abnormal tissue via a biopsy. This abnormal tissue is then sent for testing, which can confirm if it is cancerous or not. There are many ways by which a doctor can conduct a biopsy. One of the ways is a bronchoscopy. A narrow tube is passed down the throat into the lungs to examine and collect abnormal tissue. Doctors can also use a mediastinoscopy. Here an incision is made at the base of the neck, and tools are inserted to collect the tissue. Doctors may also use an X-ray or CT scan to guide a needle through the chest wall and into the lung tissue to collect abnormal cells.

Sputum cytology
At times, the individual is suffering from a cough which is causing the release of sputum. This sputum is collected and looked at under the microscope to check for lung cancer cells.

Treatment
The treatment for lung cancer can vary from person to person. A healthcare professional will choose the treatment plan based on multiple factors, including the patient’s overall health, the stage and severity of cancer, and even the individual’s personal preferences. In some cases, the side effects of the treatment outweigh the benefits. Here, the doctors may suggest treatments that do not fight or eliminate the cancer cells but instead help to deal with the symptoms of the condition. Some of the standard modes of lung cancer treatment are listed below.

Surgery
It allows for the removal of cancer tissue and cells from the lungs. Doctors remove not only abnormal cells but also a small margin of healthy tissue. There are different options for surgery, and the doctors may recommend them based on how cancer affects the lung. Therapists may also suggest the removal of lymph nodes from the chest to kill cancer cells that have spread from the lungs.

Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-powered beams such as X-rays to kill the cancer cells in the lungs. For those who have advanced lung cancer, radiation therapy is often used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy. It could also help to relieve symptoms such as pain.

Besides these, health experts also suggest treatment options like immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy to fight lung cancer. However, since symptoms start to appear in the advanced stages, it is necessary to be aware of the warning signs, risk factors, diagnosis, and therapies to keep the condition at bay.

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Known Signs of Hemophilia and Anemia

Bleeding disorders refer to a group of conditions like hemophilia or anemia that interfere with normal blood functions in the body. Hemophilia affects the ability of the blood cells to clot naturally, while anemia lowers hemoglobin count in the red blood cells. These conditions exhibit a unique set of symptoms that can be identified. Early diagnosis helps doctors form a viable healthcare plan. So, it pays to know and identify the following symptoms. Hemophilia and Anemia: Understanding the difference Both conditions are common bleeding disorders. However, anemia & hemophilia signs are distinctly different from each other when it comes to the disease progression. The latter is a genetic disorder that affects the red blood cell’s ability to clot and close wounds. Certain clotting factors in the blood bind with the red blood cells to prevent uncontrolled bleeding. Anemia is a condition where the body lacks sufficient healthy red blood cells in the first place. Also, a low hemoglobin count affects the red blood cell’s ability to carry oxygen to vital organs and extremities via the circulatory system. Genetic mutation triggers most known types of hemophilia, while certain nutritional deficiencies in the body trigger common forms of anemia. Symptoms of hemophilia The absence of essential clotting factors in the blood can trigger a variety of noticeable and unusual symptoms. Uncontrolled bleeding Bleeding is one of the primary symptoms of hemophilia. It can happen under the skin or in the joints. As the red blood cells are unable to bind and clot, this pool of blood can trigger swelling, pain, and tightness in the joints. This symptom is most commonly noticeable in the knees, elbows, and ankles. Blood collecting under the skin can lead to buildups under the muscle and soft tissue to cause more painful bruising. This symptom is called hematoma in medical terminology. Frequent nosebleeds When the bleeding is triggered externally, it can result in frequent nosebleeds that can be difficult to stop. Note that external environmental factors and physical injuries generally cause nosebleeds. So, any unexplained bleeding could indicate a developing condition. Bleeding caused due to cuts, bruises, and vaccinations Lack of essential clotting factor VIII can trigger bleeding from the lightest of impacts, cuts, bruises, or even after losing a tooth. Some people experience sudden bleeding after taking a vaccination. This could be the body’s reaction to producing antibodies, but the strain could be too much to bear, resulting in bleeding from the extremities. Blood in urine or stool Excess blood in the urine or stool is a clear sign of disease progression. The urine and stools appear dark red or even blackish due to the presence of red blood cells mixed with the excreta. Immediate medical assistance is advisable for visual symptoms. Bleeding in infants Complicated pregnancies can be physically taxing for both the mother and the child leading to possible symptoms of hemophilia at birth. But in some rare cases, infants may experience internal bleeding in the head. Symptoms of anemia The most common types of anemia, including iron deficiency anemia and vitamin deficiency anemia, develop due to the lack of nutrients in the body. Therefore, anemia exhibits more physically taxing symptoms as the condition worsens. Tiredness Increased fatigue and weakness for no apparent reason is one of the main indicators of nutritional deficiencies. An unexplained decrease in overall stamina with no physical exertion or any activity during the day could mean low iron in the blood. Without iron, the body cannot produce enough red blood cells. And low hemoglobin means not enough oxygen is being circulated around vital organs in the body, thus resulting in fatigue induced by low energy levels. Respiratory symptoms Experiencing shortness of breath, chest pains, and even noticing an irregular heartbeat could indicate a possible anemic condition. An iron deficiency lowers hemoglobin count, and this means not enough oxygen is being circulated by the blood. Low hemoglobin affects the breathing rate as the body struggles to extract more oxygen resulting in shortness of breath. The heart must also put in extra efforts to pump the low hemoglobin blood forcefully, thus resulting in irregular heartbeats. Doctors refer to this condition as heart palpitations. These symptoms can also induce chest pains due to the sheer stress being put on the organ. Pale skin and damaged hair Skin and hair symptoms are visible indicators of a developing anemia condition. An iron deficiency results in low red blood cell production and indirectly affects the shade of the skin. Pale skin is noticeably visible around the face, gums, lower lips, lower eyelids, and even on the nails. This symptom is more visually obvious among people who flaunt a lighter skin tone. Also, hair thinning, hair fall, and a damaged scalp is a clear sign of iron deficiency. Treatment options Note that anemia & hemophilia signs never overlap. Once the primary indicators are confirmed, doctors quickly suggest blood tests to identify the leading causes or triggers. Knowing the differences can help with prompt diagnosis even though both the conditions are bleeding disorders. It is even possible to recover from common forms of anemia within 2 to 3 months. Hemophilia is a more serious bleeding disorder that is treated by introducing the missing clotting factors. Doctors also suggest prescriptions that help stimulate the body to release more clotting factors. However, a transfusion offers more promising results for moderate to severe progression. Effective preventive measures and home remedies can help lower the risk of bleeding. These conditions cannot be completely cured. But it is possible to improve the quality of life by incorporating healthy lifestyle habits. Prescriptions and treatments only help slow down the disease progression.

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Managing IBS – Vitamin D Sources and Other Options

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a disorder that affects the stomach, gastrointestinal tract, and intestines. Common symptoms of the condition are bloating, abdominal pain, gas, and cramps. People with IBS may also experience sensitivity in the digestive tract and changes in bowel movement, but the symptoms can be managed by lifestyle changes and better food choices. As IBS is a chronic condition, doctors can also recommend treatment to relieve flare-ups. Symptoms In most cases, patients with IBS may notice common symptoms like mucus in the stool, bloating, excessive gas, changes in bowel movements, constipation, abdominal pain, diarrhea, cramping, changes in the frequency of bowel movement, and a sensation of incomplete bowel movement. While these may not be persistent symptoms for all patients, some can experience constant discomfort. In addition, women may also experience a flareup during their periods. Vitamin D and IBS In addition to following a treatment plan prescribed by a doctor, research suggests that vitamin D intake may help one manage IBS and associated symptoms. It has been found that vitamin D is an important nutrient that plays a role in maintaining the health of multiple systems in the body, in particular, the immune system, gut, and musculoskeletal system, Further, it has also been suggested that the nutrient plays a major role in managing colon conditions, IBS, and colorectal cancer. Vitamin D-rich foods Patients may be advised to increase their levels of vitamin D not only to manage digestive issues but also to maintain overall health. So, a healthcare expert should be consulted to check one’s vitamin D levels and ensure the body is getting adequate amounts of such essential nutrients. The following foods can be added to one’s daily meals to increase vitamin D levels in the body: Salmon: The popular fatty fish is also a rich source of vitamin D. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 3.5 ounces of salmon contain 526 IU of vitamin D. Patients may have raw, pan-seared, baked, or canned salmon, as per their preferences. Further, salmon also has omega-3 fatty acids and protein that provide various nutritional benefits to the body. Mushrooms: Another delicious source of vitamin D, mushrooms can also be recommended for people with IBS. However, the amount of vitamin D can vary with the type of mushroom; the fungi exposed to UV rays may have higher levels of the nutrient. One can add mushrooms to salads, pasta, and omelet. A single serving of mushrooms also contains micronutrients like copper, fiber, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc, among others. Rainbow trout: All varieties of rainbow trout in the country are farm-raised, so they contain low levels of mercury. They are also packed with vitamin D and other nutrients, proteins, and minerals. Rainbow trout can be added to meals in various forms—broiled, grilled, baked, smoked, pan-fried, or even sauteed. Further, the fish contains healthy fats and can be paired with rice and vegetables like red potatoes and asparagus. Egg yolk: The yolk is a rich source of vitamin D. While egg yolk might be associated with increased levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol,  yolks can offer great nutritional benefits when added in moderation to one’s meals. Apart from vitamins, egg yolks contain nutrients like protein, zinc, and selenium that are good for gut health and one’s immune system. Patients are advised to opt for free-range or pastured eggs as they have higher vitamin D content compared to other varieties. Sardines: Sardines are one of the most nutrient-rich seafood, containing vitamin D, minerals, and protein. Sardines also do not contain toxins and heavy metals like other fish, making them one of the cleanest seafood varieties. Further, the tiny fish is an immensely budget-friendly meal and can be bought fresh or in a can. Additionally, sardines are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids that possess anti-inflammatory properties benefiting IBS patients. Fortified yogurt: One of the most convenient and tasty snacks, yogurt can be consumed with fresh fruit or as is. It is an excellent source of probiotics that are good for gut health. It contains about 2 to 3 mg of vitamin D per serving along with nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. But if one notices any discomfort during or after having yogurt, they should consult a healthcare expert and seek advice regarding adding yogurt-based foods or beverages to their meals. Fortified orange juice: A single cup of fortified orange juice may add up to 99.6 IU of Vitamin D, which is almost 15% of the daily recommended value. This can be added to one’s food plan during breakfast or as smoothies for an additional boost of vitamins. In addition, one can also have orange as is for filling fiber content. Patients with other conditions, such as diabetes, must consult a doctor to see if they can add orange juice to their regular meals. Swiss cheese: This is another great source of vitamin D with low traces of lactose and is recommended for patients with IBS. Further, Swiss cheese also contains calcium and vitamin K, which help increase bone density. Cheese is also one of the most convenient vitamin D supplements as it can be shredded and added to salads, vegetables, or even baked onto bread, according to one’s preference. Management options There is no permanent cure for IBS, but a few treatment methods can help reduce the discomfort caused by symptoms. This includes lifestyle changes and home remedies such as eating smaller meals, cutting back on caffeine beverages, avoiding spicy and deep-fried foods, regular exercise, and managing stress levels. In addition to better food choices and lifestyle habits, people with IBS should seek the advice of a healthcare expert to get a suitable treatment plan and nutritional regimen.

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