I just saw the doctor yesterday. Over the weekend, I coughed up flecks of fresh blood, and one streak, and, well, I am more than a little concerned. I have been off of cigarettes almost completely for a few months now, but on Friday night, I did have a pack (it was my sixth, and without question last, "cheat"). I haven't coughed up anything colorful since (with one questionable exception).
My doc listened to my lungs, and said they sound very healthy (I can run a couple of miles easily, and get a decent amount of exercise). He wasn't overly concerned, saying that he really doubts it came from my lungs (although he added the caveat "assuming the xrays are clear"!). Also, no glandular issues. He is actually more suspicious of my throat (tons of post nasal drip, and obvious irritation). And he wants me to see an ENT to get a closer look. (Plus, I am prone to nasal issues -- nosebleeds -- and constant throat irritation due to allergies, which have just started up). He also thinks that I may have GERD issues that are irritating my throat.
But right now it is the xray that is scaring me. My only hope, really, based on what the Internet is telling me, is that this happens more frequently than is reported. Because for my age (41), it sounds like any blood is presumptively lung cancer.
I am now bracing myself to go in and get the xrays (the place was closed yesterday). Every instinct is saying "don't go", but I know I have to. Otherwise, I will just worry myself to death
....
My doc listened to my lungs, and said they sound very healthy (I can run a couple of miles easily, and get a decent amount of exercise). He wasn't overly concerned, saying that he really doubts it came from my lungs (although he added the caveat "assuming the xrays are clear"!). Also, no glandular issues. He is actually more suspicious of my throat (tons of post nasal drip, and obvious irritation). And he wants me to see an ENT to get a closer look. (Plus, I am prone to nasal issues -- nosebleeds -- and constant throat irritation due to allergies, which have just started up). He also thinks that I may have GERD issues that are irritating my throat.
But right now it is the xray that is scaring me. My only hope, really, based on what the Internet is telling me, is that this happens more frequently than is reported. Because for my age (41), it sounds like any blood is presumptively lung cancer.
I am now bracing myself to go in and get the xrays (the place was closed yesterday). Every instinct is saying "don't go", but I know I have to. Otherwise, I will just worry myself to death