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Customer question:

Can lung cancer cause back pain? Anonymous customer's question

Pharmacist's answer:

Yes, lung cancer can cause back pain. It can also spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, including the bones of the spine. When cancer cells invade the bones of the spine, they can cause pain in that area. Large tumors in the lungs can also press on nearby tissues, nerves, or bones, resulting in back or chest pain. Back pain can also be a side effect of certain lung cancer therapies, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery.

If you have back pain and lung cancer is suspected or if you have already been diagnosed with lung cancer, it is important to consult your doctor. He can carry out appropriate tests, assess the pain's cause, and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Can lung cancer spread to other parts of the body?

Yes, lung cancer can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. This is one of the key reasons why lung cancer can be deadly. Cancer cells can spread via the bloodstream or lymphatic system to distant organs and tissues and form secondary tumors in these parts of the body.

The most common places lung cancer can spread include:

• Other parts of the lung: Lung cancer can spread to other lung tissue, worsening symptoms and complicating treatment.
• Brain: Brain metastases are common in patients with lung cancer. They can cause headaches, dizziness, behavioral changes, nausea, and other neurological symptoms.
• Liver: Lung cancer can spread to the liver, which can cause jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, abdominal enlargement, and other problems.
• Bones: Bone metastases are common in lung cancer, which can cause bone pain, bone fractures, and other problems.
• Near lymph nodes: Cancer cells can spread to lymph nodes in the chest (mediastinal lymph nodes), which can affect breathing and cause other complications.
• Other organs: Lung cancer can spread to other organs, such as the kidneys, adrenal glands, intestines, and other body parts.

Metastases in other parts of the body often worsen the prognosis and treatment of lung cancer. Still, with early detection and appropriate therapy, these complications can be managed, and the patient's quality of life can be improved.

Check out more about lung cancer in general.

Does lung cancer cause physical pain?

Yes, lung cancer can cause physical pain, but this is not always present and can vary depending on the individual and the stage of the disease. Larger tumors can press on surrounding tissues, nerves, or bones, which can cause pain in the chest, back, or other parts of the body. Lung cancer can spread to other parts of the body, including the bones, which can cause bone pain. Pain can also be a side effect of specific lung cancer therapies, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery. Respiratory infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia are common with lung cancer, which can cause chest pain and discomfort. Cancer diagnosis and treatment can also cause stress and anxiety, which can contribute to the feeling of pain.

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