Expert: Michael Dean - 8/11/2009

Question
Hi
I am 29 years old. Female. Ex smoker. Quit 6 months ago. Used to smoke 5-6 cigarettes a day for past 12 years.
Have mild asthma. For almost a year i have noticed that whenever i have cold like symptoms i tend to get an internal itchy sensation in my right shoulder/upper back area (seems like it is coming from the right lung)
My question is does this sound like a symptom of lung cancer? I suffer from rhinitis and have no other lung symptoms other than the constant runny nose, sneezing a lot, itchy ears and throat. I have recently been to my GP an he has listened to my lungs several times and says that they sound clear. Also i have noticed that the itching sensation does at times feel like a mild burning sensation in my upper back/shoulder area.
As i am a recent ex smoker i am scared. Please advise.

Answer
Dear mas,

Sorry for the delay. Congrats on quitting. that is great.

No this does not wound like a symptom of lung cancer. Your risk of that is actually very low.

But a check up would be a good idea. Your lungs will be recovering for some time.

I hope this helps,
Michael