Symptom 5: Recurring Infections
Childhood memories often include scraped knees and the occasional flu. However, when colds and respiratory infections stop being the exception and start becoming a rule, it’s a cause for concern. While children, with their developing immune systems, are more prone to infections, a recurring pattern might not just be about their exposure at the playground.
We often brush off frequent infections as a part of growing up. After all, schools, play areas, and even homes are rife with germs. But what’s critical to understand is that the frequency, severity, and recovery time from these infections can paint a bigger picture. If a child gets sick frequently and takes longer to bounce back, it’s not just about the infection; it’s about what’s weakening their defense against it.
Lung carcinoma in children, while uncommon, can manifest through a pattern of recurring infections. It’s a daunting thought. How does a malignancy link to an infection? Tumors in the lungs can make the respiratory system more susceptible to infections. These growths can obstruct airways, trap bacteria, and reduce the lungs’ ability to clear out pathogens, leading to a repetitive cycle of infections. (5)
