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A 19-year-old female asked:

18 year old, female, non-smoker, with persistent cough and chest infection for 4 weeks, and getting worse. could i have lung cancer?

5 doctor answers12 doctors weighed in
Dr. Jeffrey Juchau
Family Medicine 35 years experience
Very Unlikely: more likely that you have bronchospasm from the infection. See your doctor for treatments aimed at decreasing inflammation and spasm such as inhalers, steroids etc.
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Dr. Natalie Hodge
Pediatrics 28 years experience
Not likely : 18 year old smokers do not get lung cancer, no. But four weeks of persistent cough is concerning. Could be sinus infection, walking pneumonia, even pertussis. You need a good history and exam by your pcp! Best of luck!
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Minghsun Liu
Infectious Disease 21 years experience
Need follow-up.: Lung cancer is not diagnosed this way. You should visit a local physician where he/she can order at least a chest X-ray and some blood tests to start with. I assume what you meant by "chest infection" is more symptom of congestion. The symptoms you have described can be caused by a range of conditions from acid reflux to asthma.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Michael Gabor
Diagnostic Radiology 35 years experience
You need: to be evaluated by your doctor to determine the cause of your symptoms. In your age group, lung cancer is rare, so it would be an unlikely diagnosis.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Diane Minich
Family Medicine 39 years experience
Unlikely at your age: But should see doctor for an evaluation to find the cause.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Jun 26, 2015

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