Are Lung Nodules Cancerous?

Lung nodules are usually detected through an x-ray or CT scan procedure. These are generally made up of tissues in the lungs that form into a mass, no more than five mm. to twenty-five mm. Imaging through x-ray or CT scan that reveals a white spot on the lungs that is of a size no bigger than an inch will most likely be a benign mass rather than a malignant tumor. Non-Cancerous Nodules Generally, lung nodules detected in individuals, with no accompanying symptoms, are benign. This means that the nodules are non-cancerous and in fact, they are relatively common in adults especially in people who smoke. If a lung nodule has been detected, the chances that this is malignant are minimal. However, doctors will most likely ask their patients to be on the lookout for signs or symptoms that may reveal that the nodule could be developing in size; which in turn could translate to the mass having developed into a tumor. Usually, if a lung nodule has been detected, doctors will prescribe medications to get rid of the problem. After several weeks, the patient may be required to take another imaging test to see if the nodule was removed through medication or if it changed in size. What Causes Lung Nodules? There are various causes of lung nodules; one of which is infection. Bacterial infection in the lungs such as tuberculosis causes the formation of lung nodules but these will eventually go away with proper medication. Sometimes, medical conditions may also cause the formation of lung nodules. For instance, if a person is suffering from chronic rheumatoid arthritis, nodules in the lungs may develop, in the form of inflamed tissues. Pain in the Lungs Oftentimes, a person experiencing lung pain will go to the doctor to find out the reason behind it and only after imaging tests have been done that a nodule or a mass is detected. Since lung nodules do not generally manifest any symptom, the discovery of these nodules may be via a routine or annual check-up not specifically through a procedure intended to confirm the presence of nodules. However, if a person has experienced pain in the lung area it does not immediately translate to lung cancer. Sometimes, upper back pain is mistaken for pain in the lungs.

But if the pain is persistent and you feel other symptoms such as shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing, persistent cough, coughing-up blood or sudden weight loss without dieting; these could be signs of a more serious condition. An x-ray followed by a CT scan or MRI may be required to see the condition of the lungs.