What is small cell lung cancer?

The first signs of early small cell lung cancer may include coughing, chest pain, wheezing, feeling short of breath, and fatigue. There may also be blood in the mucus that was coughed up. The symptoms of later stages can include swelling of the face. They also include hoarseness, trouble swallowing, and weight loss.

Treatment for small cell lung cancer is based on the stage of the cancer and other things, such as your overall health. The main treatments are chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. Sometimes other treatments are used, such as laser therapy or surgery. A clinical trial may be a good choice.

A biopsy and chest X-rays are used to diagnose small cell lung cancer. You may have a CT scan and other tests. Your doctor will also do a physical exam. The doctor will ask about your symptoms, your past health, if you smoke or have smoked, and any family history of cancer.

Taking medicines as prescribed and getting enough sleep may help you feel better. If it's hard to eat, talk to your doctor or a dietitian. Get some physical activity each day if you can. Consider joining a support group or talking with a counselor.

Small cell lung cancer is caused by smoking or being around secondhand smoke. It rarely happens in people who have never smoked.

Small cell is a type of lung cancer that happens when abnormal cells grow out of control in the lungs. The cells form tumors and invade nearby tissue. The cancer usually starts in the breathing (bronchial) tubes in the lungs. Small cell lung cancer grows fast and can spread quickly.