Lung cancer
'I'm thankful I saw my GP as soon as I spotted the symptoms'
Ann Long, a retired social worker, had surgery to remove part of her lung after she was diagnosed with lung cancer.
Ann first noticed something was wrongone morning."I was brushing my teeth," she says,"and as I swilled out my mouth, I noticed a tiny redspot, which I knew wasnt fresh blood. I thought something wasnt quite right and I should get it checked out." Ann had alsorecently developed a cough first thing in the morning.
"I immediately went to see my GP to discuss my symptoms and she sent me for a chest X-ray, which showed that there was a shadow on my lung.After that, I had a bronchoscopy and a CAT scan. It was confirmed that I had lung cancer.
"After I received the diagnosis, I discussed the different treatment options with the consultant.It was decided that the best treatment for me was to have half of my left lung removed. I continued to have regular check-ups after the surgery, but now I no longer require any medical follow-ups.
"Every day Im amazed at how fortunate I am. I'm thankful I went to the GP as soon I spotted symptoms that I knew were unusual. I would urge anybody who has the potential signs of lung cancer, such as a persistent cough, to visit their GP straight away. There is nothing to be nervous about,and youshould not be afraid. The worst thing you can do is to leave your symptoms too long. Speed is the most important thing.
"I have always lived a very active life, and being diagnosed with lung cancer didn't stop that. I go on regular three-mile walks, I swim, I exercise, I go to the gym and Im learning Tai chi.I'm about to start Nordic walking. I also enjoy painting, playing bridge and I'm researching my family history.
"A few people speak to me now about lung cancer, and about symptoms they or their partners have, and I always encourage them to go to their GP. It's better to have these things checked out than to ignore them."
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 30 Nov 2016
Introduction
Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious types of cancer. Around 44,500 people are diagnosed with the condition every year in the UK.
Symptoms of lung cancer
Symptoms of lung cancer develop as the condition progresses and there are usually no signs or symptoms in the early stages.
Causes of lung cancer
Most cases of lung cancer are caused by smoking, although people who have never smoked can also develop the condition.
Diagnosing lung cancer
See your GP if you have symptoms of lung cancer, such as breathlessness or a persistent cough.
Treating lung cancer
People with cancer should be cared for by a multidisciplinary team (MDT), a team of specialists who work together to provide the best treatment and care.
Living with lung cancer
Lung cancer can affect your daily life in different ways, depending on what stage it's at and the treatment you're having.
Preventing lung cancer
If you smoke, the best way to prevent lung cancer and other serious conditions is to stop smoking as soon as possible.
'I didn't fit the typical profile of someone with lung cancer'
Peter Quinn was diagnosed with lung cancer after visiting his GP with pain and swelling in his knees.
'I was determined not to let the diagnosis spoil my life'
Shirley Smith went to her GP after she had coughed up a spot of blood. Within a week, she'd had a scan in hospital and been diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.
'I've had full quality of life for a very long time now'
Geoff Williams, a retired language lecturer, had surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy after he was diagnosed with lung cancer.
'I'm thankful I saw my GP as soon as I spotted the symptoms'
Ann Long, a retired social worker, had surgery to remove part of her lung after she was diagnosed with lung cancer.
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