What Are Lung Nodules

Lung nodules might not be something you think about every time you take a breath, but perhaps they should be—at least for a moment. These small spots, discovered lurking in the lungs typically through X-rays or scans, can range from harmless to harbingers of health issues. Before you hold your breath in worry, let's dive into what lung nodules are, exploring their nature, causes, and why they might pop up when you least expect them. So, take a deep breath, and let's clear the air on the subject of lung nodules.

Symptoms

Lung nodules are small spots on the lungs that are usually found during chest scans. Most of these nodules are harmless, but a few can be serious. Knowing what symptoms to look out for can help you catch them early and get the right treatment. Here are ten common signs that might suggest you have lung nodules.

Persistent Cough

Fact: About 50% of persistent coughs in people who currently smoke or have smoked in the past could be attributed to lung cancer, which may initially present as a small lung nodule.

If you’ve been coughing for over three weeks, it's time to talk to your doctor. A long-lasting cough is one of the first signs that you might have a lung nodule. Persistent coughing can be disruptive and is a symptom that shouldn't be ignored.