my mom has a shadow on her lung

It can be dangerous, scary, and uncomfortable. This shadow was detected originally around 1991 and said it was of no significence. These conditions often go undetected for months or years unless a family member notices something is wrong. After a person takes a deep breath, some of the air remains trapped in their lungs because there's not enough room for it all to go out. Sounds like you are moving forward and they are being prompt with getting things done. Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them. Lung cancer risks for people who don't smoke. I have a cough and this is put down to a large hiatus hernia. Walking is one of the best options as it is easy on the joints and has very little risk of injury when done consistently. My mom was recently diagnosed with a large cancer tumor (bigger than a grape fruit) in her left lung. Does she have a follow up at all scheduled? For example, a shadow on the lung film may indicate pneumonia, tuberculosis, cancer, or heart disease. Hello worried daughter, I understand your concern. You have reassured me a lot and been really helpful. How many chemo sessions did you have after the op and how far apart were they. Among the options: All of these tests have advantages and limitations. Keeping a loved ones cholesterol level down is the best way to prevent fluid buildup in the lungs. Herpes sores blister, then burst, scab and heal. These conditions often go undetected for months or years unless a family member notices something is wrong. Respiratory rate is the number of times per minute you breathe. Wouln't they have found something in the scan if there was cancer? It is treated with blood thinners like Coumadin ( warfarin ). Bloomfield, NJ 07003. I was 4 weeks between surgery and the start of chemotherapy but they will not start until your mum is well into her recovery. It is a very painful condition that leads to shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and dizziness. I believe in my case because it was already in the lymph nodes of the lung, and lymph node of the trachea. I hope this has eased your mind a little. Try to stay as calm as you can, it is all underway now and the hospital team will keep you informed and let you know the options available . It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Does anyone kow what the difference is between a shadow or a scar on lung? However, due to work demands and family obligations, it is sometimes impossible for you to attend to all your elderly loved one needs. Miller A. , they are more likely to have fluid buildup in the lungs. I appreciate your reassurance. I really hope it is good news you get, but please let us know either way. So think good not bad, go for a walk with your Mum, get her active it will be hard at times but well worth it. All timescales are subject to your mum's health and recovery ,they will not rush her and neither of you should feel under pressure . I believe the PET scan is head and torso. A biopsy may be needed to make a sure diagnosis. THank you all inadvance, trying to remain positive for her and find other things it could be to stay away from the "Cancer" word. I also have a doctor that there is no cure. As I remember hoping I may find out sooner (I didn't despite it all being positive for cancer). My family and I just found out on May 24th that my mom had a lung mass in her right upper lobe. I had one Dr said I have Pulmonary Fibrosis and its spread to the lining of the lung and increased breathlessness, and a chest xray which shows hyperinflation of the lungs . I am a 47 year old South East Asian male. Hi. PET/MRI and PET/CT in lung lesions and thoracic malignancies. Instagram/ Jenelle EvansTeen Mom star Jenelle Evans has begged fans for their prayers after . Even with both structural and functional imaging tests, a biopsy might be needed to confirm or rule out a diagnosis. Don't worry, there is a lot of conflicting information out there, and I am not medical so I could be wrong. She loves to write about how to get started with fitness and health, as well as give advice on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle for life. Do not copy or redistribute in any form! I get feeling of overwhelming doom and then I can feel really optimistic. seychelles88 over 4 years ago. Radiation therapy is used to kill any remaining cancer cells in order to prevent them from growing back. If only part of one lung is affected, it is called "unilateral" and means that something is wrong only with that single lung. It's important to determine whether or not each nodule is cancerous before any treatment is initiated. If you exhibit any of the signs of lung cancer, your doctor may recommend a chest X-ray. I had a large shadow on my lung for about 6 years, however i plugged into the Pulmonary Rehab exercise class determined to keep myself fit. She has been told they are prepared to operate as her lung function tests and heart tests are good. I believe it can indicate areas where cancer may have spread to, but not what highlighted areas are caused by. I have low fev1 spirometry results; 68% predicted level. I would however get your aunt to put herself in the best possible place to tackle whatever it is by making sure she is keeping as active as possible and eating a healthy well balanced diet. In the meantime, if it IS nothing, I'd get on your mom real good about quitting. Research shows that everything from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to pneumonia is linked to smoking. Jenelle, 31, has been open and honest with her followers about her health struggles over the years and took to her Instagram Story on Tuesday to reveal her latest diagnosis. Most patients with lung cancer are smokers but we do see lung cancer in non-smokers. My parents haven't been together since I was a young child and as my father (88) is starting to display some pretty profound signs of dementia, I've kept my mom's diagnosis to . Its been a while since my PET, but I do remember being surprised that the results would be sent to my Consultant so quickly. My mom has been experiencing some pretty severe health issues and yesterday, she received confirmation that she has lung cancer and a tumour on a kidney as well. Or are you expecting her GP to be the one to contact? Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. The key is to find a suitable exercise that they can do and stick with. A chest CT scan gives us a better idea about the size, shape, character of the shadow (that was seen on X-ray) to determine if the shadow is more likely to be a tumor or infection. Like you I have seen that nodules are small but I hadn't thought about that making it difficult to biopsy thanks for pointing that out. They can tell an abnormality is present, but don't provide information about the lesion's activity. It is at this time you may consider hiring someone to look for your loved one safety and prevent them from acquiring conditions like Pulmonary Edema. A few years ago she had kidney cancer and her kidney was removed and she has had regular scans for this. Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them. I did ask at the meeting and the doctor said radiotherapy but that it would cause complications to other organs. I had a lobe removed in January, Im 59 and was diagnosed with stage 2bN1M0 squamous cell so had 2 lymph nodes affected also. Fluid in the lungs in the elderly is not only life-threatening, but it can also be a symptom of another condition. A CT is more detailed than a chest X-ray for visualizing the normal structures in the chest. Hope this shows you not all shadows are of a serious nature but they need to be investigated incase. What Does It Mean to Have a Shadow on the Lung? I also completely understand the being alone thing too, I also have no partner or children etc. Good luck! She's been a pack-a-day smoker for 40 years so they are sending her for a CT scan on the 15th to rule anything serious out. Researchers continue to study why people who have never smoked develop this deadly form of cancer. They were both axillas, my groin and my colon. Two chest X-rays (Six weeks apart) and follow up. A shadow on the lung film can indicate many different problems with which you might be associated. A chest CT scan gives us a better idea about the size, shape, character of the shadow (that was seen on X-ray) to . Feel free to send a message online. During this time she was admitted to hospital as part of her lung collapsed. But I thank God that my daughters, and my Mom and Dad were there for me all the way through my journey. I have had some shadowing on my lungs, noted 4 years ago. In fact, most things that show up, old scars from old infections and emboli as well as evidence of current bacterial and fungal infections, abscesses, emboli and cysts, are not. Even if it's something serious like cancer, catching it earlywhen it's most treatableis always a huge plus. Into the last good fight I'll ever know. She's been a pack-a-day smoker for 40 years so they are sending her for a CT scan on the 15th to rule anything 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved, Lynne Eldrige, MD, is a lung cancer physician, patient advocate, and award-winning author of "Avoiding Cancer One Day at a Time.". Also a problem with Acidex as it interferes with other medications. I hope you can get this PET scan over with soon, lung cancer is no longer the death sentence it was years ago and im sending strength to you and your Mum xx. They never did investigate my axillas further, but I did explain again re my long term medical condition and we all agreed that this was what the PET was showing. Since that was the only thing seen in either lung, they believe the main tumor was originally there amd moved right across to her upper spine. In general, if one whole side of your lung is affected, it is called "bilateral" and means that something is wrong with both lungs. Two weeks ago the consultant said he wasn't sure whether it was cancer even though the tests had improved slightly. Use of this online service is subject to the disclaimer and the terms and conditions. With adenocarcinoma there are many other drugs available, but it sounds like they want the tumour out and go from there. She is usually healthy. I am concerned that it is more serious than what they are suggesting. So the latest is my mum needs to have surgery to remove the lump. We have very recently been given the news that our mum has lung cancer. None of us can say what we thing it may be, we don't know the whole history and although I was a medical professional I wouldn't 'guess'. It may also cause the development of pulmonary edema. What does a white spot on your lung mean? Easy to say I know but do try not to worry, knowing something isnt right and waiting for results is, by far, the hardest bit! does the drake hotel chicago have a pool . It builds up in the lungs and leads to fluid buildup. Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked. Keep your loved ones cholesterol levels low by encouraging them to reduce saturated fats and trans fats, exercise, quit smoking, and reduce stress levels. Now they want to send her to a specialist which will do a test with a camera (not too sure of the name of this test) I am scared for my mom, do you guys think it's cancer? The type of treatment for lung cancer will depend on many factors, such as the size, shape, and location of the tumor; how far it has grown; what kind of tissue it consists of (i.e., lung cancer vs. breast cancer); and whether it has returned after previous surgery. These medical reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Thats good then you need to relax too! Any help / advice will be appreciated, I feel sick with worry for her. Its hard to eatand sleep and have no one else I can talk to so thanks all for listening. I think they will do a biopsy, when they remove the nodule it will be sent for testing. Thank you so much for your reply. Hi I was ill in January of this year sent for an xray which showed a shadow I then had a CT scan which showed a tumor the hospital said they were 98% sure it was lung cancer and for 3mths they tried 6 times to get a biopsy but couldn't the PET scan showed it as worse they went to start chemo and radio therapy realised that they had not tested my blood since Feb for infection after 3 lots of very strong antibiotics what they thought was LC disappeared, they then agreed to operate (they had told me it was inoperable) the tumor was removed and was also benign. It can also be caused by cancer or other medical conditions. What Causes Fluid in Lungs in The Elderly? She also has Emphysema. SHe has had a persistant cough and grough voice and breathleness for a long time now, in fact its been that long i cant remember, she had a camera down her throat a lont while ago now and they found nothing, so through her persistance she eventualy sent for chest xrays last week at SUnderland Royal Hospital, she then went in to see the consultant today in the chest clinic who ordered a CT scan and told her it could be nothing or it could sinister!!!! A biopsy would yield a definitive diagnosis. she is a smoker and she has been coughing (but has got - Answered by a verified Health Professional . I've had many X-Ray's, two CT scans, one was a high resolution one. She's going home to die. She has also changed her diet and lifestyle to help her to loose weight which weve read can help with COPD. You can also provide them with, However, due to work demands and family obligations, it is sometimes impossible for you to attend to all your elderly loved one needs. Being overweight leads to fluid buildup in the lungs. Chest X-ray are normal. Cigarette smoking increases the risk of developing fluid buildup in the lungs and other respiratory conditions. I think from vague memory it was within hours, and I already had the date to receive the results from all the tests in over a week after the PET's time. She is 60y/o and fit and. It turned out to be fine. 6 years she's been clear now they've found something on her lung she went to Christies last week ..she gets her results on the 25th the date of my sons birthday also. Dense or solid structures, such as bone, heart, and major blood vessels, appear white. I am the caregiver for my Mom. Negative chest X-rays in primary care patients with lung cancer. Based on the CT, her physician may prefer to get a biopsy or to repeat a CT scan. This article will focus on common causes, signs, and symptoms, and natural ways you can prevent them. HopeForMyMom 2 years ago. I have read so much about PET scans it gets all confusing some sites say it determines whether it is cancerous and if its spread then as you said they are not used to determine if it cancer, my mind is in a whirl, sorry. In addition to providing a clear diagnosis, a biopsy sample is examined with a microscope to give healthcare providers important information about the molecular characteristics of the mass and whether it is cancerous. We are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life by helping restore good health, and alleviating pain and suffering to our care recipients. When a person smokes, their lungs struggle to get rid of carbon monoxide, which forms when a person breathes in tobacco smoke. Take care, Judy Reply Share React marthame Jan 26, 2013 6:42 AM I am just so scared for her. So, my mum has cancer. A shadow on the lung might be a symptom of anything catastrophic, or it could be meaningless in terms of your health. The chest consultant was more concerned with my HH as not much they do for it he gave me Acidex and said put the bed head up, can't do this due to needing to elevate my legs. A heart-healthy diet helps prevent fluid buildup in the lungs as it is low in saturated fats and cholesterol and high in fiber, omega three fatty acids, and other nutrients that keep arteries free of plaque. A spot on the lung, commonly known as a lung or pulmonary nodule, might be an early sign of cancer. Live and die on this day" - The Grey. My dad has even gotten in on them too! To view profiles and participate in discussions please, Hi I am hoping too that as they are operating this means they are hopeful of removing the entire lump. Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It may be given as a single dose of medication, or it may be combined with radiation therapy and chemotherapy to increase its effectiveness. 2 clear scans since and hoping for a 3rd in January. It's possible it's simply a calicification on her lung or granuloma I believe. Or it may have no effect on your health. Some clues might be found in your medical history, family history, whether you smoke, and if you're exposed to occupational toxins. You are always welcome to post questions, just talk things through, vent, moan, scream here. Even going to a high altitude may lead to altitude pulmonary edema. You need to know what it is before you go looking for answers, you can frighten yourself silly reading everything on the internet. My mom is a toxic narcissist. Into the last good fight I'll ever know. We just pray that she is on the scale he gave her of it could be nothing? I recently had a CAT scan for the same thing. How long was the operation and was it done by keyhole, Sorry to ask all these questions but I am a mess with worry. They found a polyp which they removed. For example, a shadow on the lung film may indicate pneumonia, tuberculosis, cancer, or heart disease. slightly. She has a few weeks. This article explores the many possible reasons why a shadow might appear on a lung. but I manage to keep it stable most of the time.Best wishes to you both. I am recovering from colon cancer myself after having the operation last June so this is just devastating to go through all over again. Again this was sent for a biopsy and was benign. The CT Scan had remained the same after 5 weeks showing that the shadow hadn't decreased or increased. American Cancer Society. They removed half of my left lung, I went through 12 weeks of chemo as a . They came back completely fine. The ideal cholesterol level should be less than 200 mg/dl. My mom went for a scan last August as they found a shadow on her X Ray, they confirmed that the shawdow was indeed there after the scan and recommended another one in Three months, we just got the results from that scan and nothing has change the shadow is still there. Pulmonary Edema is the medical term for the build-up of fluid in your lungs. For now I hope this puts your mind at ease, but any chest infections or symptoms get your mum straight back to the doctors. In Lucie's case, she had a shadow in the chest x-ray on the top of her left lung. I had the same issue some years ago and underwent cancer tests ect three years later I was diagnosed as mild COPD seven years later and as far as I know the shadow is still there as they were unable to say it was not cancer other than the fact that the shadow size had not changed. But to me, the PET could not rule anything in or out without the further investigations and Biopsies. 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Serious nature but they will not start until your mum is well into her recovery most... Make a sure diagnosis level down is the medical term for the same after 5 weeks showing the! Had regular scans for this mum has lung cancer the disclaimer and the doctor said radiotherapy but that would! I 've had many X-ray 's, two CT scans, one a... Was already in the lungs in the lungs and other respiratory conditions,! But it sounds like you are always welcome to post questions, just things. Film can indicate areas where cancer may have spread to, but not what highlighted areas are by. To repeat a CT scan, commonly known as a, moan, scream here thorough accurate...