Fears of Lung Cancer

[catfinis]

Hey Guys, Newbie here. Feeling alarmed at the moment as I have had a chest x-ray showing shadow on the apex of the right lung, in position this corresponds to pain I have in upper chest and upper back. Been asthmatic for over 10 years, medication increasingly ineffective in recent years and put on fostair. Lost my car last year (epilepsy flare-up) and needed to start cycling to work as there is no public transport. I live 5 miles out of town and have to go up a very big hill there and back. Once the cold weather struck in November felt increasingly unwell with asthma, then developed chest infection. Took antibiotics in December, didn't resolve, different strain of antibiotics in January and steroids, no different. Very poorly with breathing problems, peak flow down to under 200, another variety of antibiotics in February, more steroids, plus asthma pill. Now recovered from chest infection but PF still only 350 rather than usual 450 (I'm female, early fifties). My questions: does lung cancer affect peak flow? does LC cause a dull pain? I've had the pain for a few months. How long should PF take to recover after a chest infection? (it's been 2 weeks since I finished the course). Is it possible to 'strain' the lung? Felt that I damaged myself when pushing on up the hill when extremely breathless. Doctor says it isn't COPD. Everything is clear, apart from this shadow. I smoked when I was young and have an open coal fire. Further investigation this week, pretty terrified at what could be revealed. Thanks for reading, hope someone can help.

[JeanE41]

Welcome catfinis. I understand your concern. You have been through a lot in a short period of time and now a chest xray shows a shadow on your lung. It's so scary to have something show up on a test and not know what it is. You will probably be given additional tests such as a cat scan (computerized axial tomography) to get a better idea of what this shadow might be. Whatever it is, it is best to know what it is so an appropriate treatment plan can be developed. Don't be afraid to ask questions so you understand what is being said. If it is cancer, there are many new options for treatment available now. I am four years out from surgery for both lung and breast cancer and still going at age 77. Take someone with you to your appointment for a second set of ears. We often only hear a small percentage of what is said. Have them take notes if possible.

I wish you well. This shadow could just be scarring from a lung infection, so stay optimistic.

Jean

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Dear catfinis,

While a shadow on a chest X-ray can be distressing, you shouldn't assume the worst. There can be many reasons for the abnormality and, in some cases, for example, it is only the remnant of a past infection that has long since resolved. Once you have had your tests and investigations completed the doctors will be able to pinpoint the cause and decide on a plan of care for you.

In response to your specific questions, yes, lung cancer can affect breathing by interfering with the normal function of the lung. Chest or shoulder pain can be experienced in lung cancer. It can be a dull ache or sharper pain. Often the chest pain is worse with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing.

Peak flow recovery depends on how severe your symptoms are, your age and your overall general health.

If you are breathless or in discomfort when cycling you should discuss this with your respiratory nurse specialist. There may be pulmonary rehabilitation programmes which you can be assessed for.

Jean E41 has given you some good advice.

Please don't hesitate to call the nurse led helpline if you would like to speak to

one of the nurses.

Kid regards,

All the team at the"Ask the Nurse" helpline.