When Should You See a Lung Cancer Specialist in Singapore? Recognising the Warning Signs

Lung cancer remains one of the most common and serious types of cancer worldwide. In Singapore, lung cancer is the third most common type of cancer in males and females respectively, with it being the leading cause of cancer-related deaths for both genders. Early detection is crucial in ensuring favourable treatment outcomes and survival rates. Many symptoms of lung cancer generally go unnoticed or can be mistaken for minor respiratory issues, which is why it’s important to understand the warning signs. If you or a loved one is experiencing persistent respiratory issues, it may be time to schedule an appointment with a lung cancer specialist in Singapore. This blog article discusses common symptoms of lung cancer, risk factors, and how to prepare for an appointment.

Common Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Symptoms of lung cancer vary, depending on the stage and type of cancer. Here are some key signs that should not be ignored:

Persistent Cough: A cough that lingers for more than a few weeks, especially if it worsens or ends up with the patient coughing up blood, is an immediate cause of concern.
Shortness of Breath: Difficulty in breathing could be a major sign of lung impairment.
Chest Pain: Discomfort or pain in the chest that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing, can be a symptom.
Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without a change in diet or exercise could be a sign of lung cancer.
Constant Fatigue: Persistent exhaustion that does not seem to go away with adequate rest or sleep could be an indicator of an underlying condition.
Throat Hoarseness: Changes in voice tone or persistent hoarseness in the throat is a lesser-known symptom of lung cancer.
Frequent Respiratory Infections: Recurring bronchitis or pneumonia could indicate an underlying lung condition.

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it’s essential to consult a lung specialist in Singapore for further evaluation, diagnosis and treatment.

Risk Factors to Consider

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing lung cancer, such as:

Smoking: This is the leading cause of lung cancer and significantly increases the risk of developing it. This applies to those who are secondhand smokers as well.
Exposure to Carcinogens: Exposure to radon, asbestos, arsenic, and diesel exhaust increases the risk of lung cancer.
Family History: If close relatives have had lung cancer, then genetic predisposition may be a contributing factor.
Air Pollution: Long-term exposure to polluted environments may contribute to lung cancer development.
Chronic Lung Diseases: Certain conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or pulmonary fibrosis can increase the risk of developing lung cancer.

Understanding these risk factors in detail helps make an informed decision regarding lifestyle changes and cancer screenings. If you belong to a high-risk group, it’s advisable to make an appointment with a lung specialist for an early screening.

Preparing for an Appointment with a Lung Specialist in Singapore

Before scheduling an appointment with a lung specialist, keep note of the following:

Listing Symptoms: Write down any persistent symptoms, their frequency, and severity.
Medical History: Keep note of any past respiratory conditions, exposure to risk factors, and family history of lung disease.
Medications and Supplements: Provide a list of any medications or supplements you take.
Questions to Ask: Prepare questions about symptoms, possible causes, diagnostic tests, and treatment options.

Being well-prepared ensures that your consultation is thorough and informative, allowing your lung cancer specialist to assess your condition properly.

Screening and Diagnosis

Lung cancer screening and diagnosis typically involve various tests to determine the presence and stage of cancer. A lung specialist in Singapore may recommend or order the following tests, which include:

Low-Dose CT Scan (LDCT): This imaging test detects lung abnormalities and is commonly used for high-risk individuals.
Chest X-ray: This is a preliminary test done to identify abnormalities in lung structure.
Sputum Cytology: This test involves an examination of coughed-up mucus to detect cancer cells.
Biopsy: A biopsy involves extracting a sample of lung tissue for laboratory testing to confirm malignancy.
Bronchoscopy: A thin tube with a camera is inserted into the airways for closer examination.
PET Scan: Helps in determining cancer spread to other parts of the body.

Early detection through these tests allows for effective treatment, potentially allowing favourable survival rates. If lung cancer is diagnosed, the doctor will discuss tailored treatment plans, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy.

Consult a Lung Cancer Specialist in Singapore at Philip Eng Respiratory and Medical Clinic

If you experience persistent respiratory issues or fall into a high-risk category, seeking medical advice is essential to prevent any potential complications from occurring if left ignored or untreated. Consulting a lung specialist in Singapore ensures a proper evaluation and access to necessary diagnostic and treatment options.

For expert lung care, consider scheduling an appointment at Philip Eng Respiratory and Medical Clinic, where our team, under the guidance of Dr. Philip Eng, provides comprehensive assessments and personalised treatment plans. Early intervention can make all the difference, so don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment today. Our clinic is conveniently located at Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre and we are contactable via phone at (+65) 6836 0378 or via email at drphilipeng@singnet.com.sg.