Serious Warning Signs And Symptoms Of Lung Cancer

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Swollen lymph nodes in an individual may indicate they have lung cancer that has spread into neighboring lymph nodes. Typically, malignancy in the lung metastasizes to nearby lymph nodes before it reaches other organ systems in the body. When malignant cells enter into the lymphatic vessels, they are carried to nearby lymph nodes and become trapped. Once in the lymph node, the tumor grows and causes the lymph node to become enlarged. Lung cancer can metastasize to the lymph nodes near the tumor or what is considered regional lymph nodes. It can also spread to lymph nodes in other regions of the body not near the lung tumor. When lymph nodes become enlarged or swollen from a cancerous growth, they can cause unpleasant symptoms. The lymph nodes in the neck can swell and place pressure on the nerves that play a key role in voice function, causing a hoarse voice. Swollen lymph nodes closer to the lung can put pressure on the organ itself, causing shortness of breath. Lymph nodes affected by cancer in the neck may manifest as swelling in the region right above the collarbone that may extend up to underneath the chin.

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