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Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious types of cancer.

Most people do not have obvious signs in the early stages of lung cancer but symptoms that may eventually develop can include:

  • a persistent cough
  • coughing up blood
  • persistent breathlessness or chest infection
  • unexplained tiredness and weight loss
  • an ache or pain when breathing or coughing

If you have these symptoms, you should see your GP in the first instance. Patients with suspected lung cancer are referred on an urgent 2 week wait referral to the UHNM for assessment and help in managing their conditions.

Early detection of lung cancer.

Early detection of lung cancer is vital, therefore a new lung screening programme has been rolled out to all eligible people registered with a Staffordshire GP. If you are aged 55-74 and a current or ex-smoker you are invited to a lung health check. For more information please visit UHNM Lung Health Checks 

 

 

Frequently asked questions

Q:How long do I need to wear my stockings for?

A:Guidance states a few weeks, but it will depend on when you are back to your normal activity level. Speak to the surgeon at your review.

Q: What should I do when my painkillers run out?

A: If you have no pain it is ok to stop them; If you require more then please contact your GP.

Q: What will happen to my stitches?

A: Only the drain stich is removed at day 5-7 usually by the practice nurse or District Nurse; the others will dissolve.

Q: When will my drain be reviewed?

A: Normally 1 week post discharge on a Tuesday in Pre-ams. The Ward clerk on 223 arranges this.

Q: Why do I have Pain under/around my breast?

A: The drain and surgery have bruised the intercostal nerves. It will normally take  6 weeks to feel normal again. Gabapentin can help. Very rarely these sensations can last longer.

Q: I have numbness/ pins and needles to my arm on the same side as the surgery. What could this be?

A: This could be Neuropraxia, caused from nerve damage during positioning in theatre. This is not permanent damage and should resolve by its self, but can take a number of months.

Q: How long until I feel normal again?

A: It is common to feel tired for 6 to 8 weeks after surgery. Your chest may hurt and be swollen for up to 6 weeks. It may ache or feel stiff for up to 3 months. You may also feel tightness, itching, numbness, or tingling around the incision for up to 3 months.

Q: When can I drive again?

A: Normally 4 weeks post op, but you should wait until after your surgical review. You need to be able to comfortably complete an emergency stop and have stopped all morphine medication.

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