6. Recurring Infections: A Silent Strain on the Immune System
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Ever had a cold that just wouldn’t go away or bronchitis that makes an encore appearance? Recurring respiratory infections are another hallmark of early-stage lung cancer. The key word here is “recurring”—a cycle of illness that refuses to break, despite medication and rest.
But why does lung cancer predispose you to infections? Think of it this way: Your lungs are already a battlefield. The presence of tumors or cancerous growths interferes with the lung’s natural defense mechanisms, making them vulnerable to opportunistic infections.
The cancerous cells are like squatters, occupying space and resources. When your lung tissue is busy fighting these invasive cells, it’s less effective at warding off external pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, leading to repeated bouts of infections.
These recurring infections can manifest as persistent bronchitis, pneumonia, or even a long-lasting flu. Each new episode strains the immune system further, diverting vital resources and energy from combating the underlying malignancy.
The moral of the story is simple yet overlooked: An unshakeable infection is your body’s cry for help, an SOS signal you can’t afford to ignore. (6)
