The causes of chronic cough are very varied and are related to different systems.

In this article we explain what is lung cancer.

Why does lung cancer trigger coughing?

When we talk about cancer we refer to the uncontrolled growth of cells in an area of the body. In the case of lung cancer, This would occur when this uncontrolled growth begins in the lungs. Its main causes are inhalation of tobacco smoke, as well as air pollution, inhalation of toxic substances, the use of fire to cook or heat a home, and genetic causes.

Cough is one of the main symptoms of cancer for several reasons related to its growth and impact on the airways:

• When tumors grow in or near the bronchi, they irritate their lining, triggering the cough reflex.
• If the tumor completely or partially blocks a bronchus, secretions can accumulate behind the obstruction, triggering the cough reflex to try to clear the airways.
• The tumor can locally inflame the bronchi, increasing mucus production, which triggers coughing.
• Lung obstruction and damage can promote infections, which cause coughing.
• If cancer affects the recurrent laryngeal nerve, chronic coughing is triggered.

Lung cancer is one of the possible causes of cough. If it persists for more than 8 weeks, we are considering a case of chronic cough.

Author: Eva Maroto

References:

1. https://www.msdmanuals.com/es/hogar/breve-informaci%C3%B3n-trastornos-del-pulm%C3%B3n-y-las-v%C3%ADas-respiratorias/tumores-pulmonares/c%C3%A1ncer-de-pulm%C3%B3n?query=c%C3%A1ncer%20de%20pulm%C3%B3n