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@annallee

Thank you, and everyone, for the responses! I read them and I re-read them; sometimes I wonder if my memory IS really going bonkers.
In reply to your question, there was a CT scan but it was done following an Xray that my family doctor ordered because of a persistent cough. Since I have had a history of bronchitis we used our normal treatments, which did not help to get rid of the cough - so started my adventure.
I am 5 days away from having the lobectomy and I am even more nervous and worried about everything! I not only worry about the swelling of my feet and ankles (and was prescribed medication for - but does not seem to have helped much) but what has happened with the cancer between now and the 1st detection (in mid-May). Has the cancer spread? Am I developing new problems due to the spread - such as severe shoulder/arm pain, weakness, fatigue, moodiness, or am I just being a wuss and creating these problems in my own mind - over thinking? I am sure I will find out more on Friday, but thought this would be a good place to ask. Most information I find is about treatment and side effects from that, not much has been discussed about what one goes thru while the cancer is still inside them, without treatment - yet. If anyone can share, I would be appreciative. You all are wonderful for people for taking the time to respond, thank you, and I wish the best for everyone!

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Replies to "Thank you, and everyone, for the responses! I read them and I re-read them; sometimes I..."

@annallee, Some lung cancers are slow growing, some are not. Without a fresh CT or PET scan, it's hard to tell what's really happening. This is a scary time, and what you are feeling is completely valid.
Everyone is different, and how they react to cancer growth is different depending on where the cancer is located and how your lymph nodes are reacting. When I was diagnosed, I felt great until the bottom dropped out, and then I experienced all sorts of symptoms very quickly (loss of breath, inability to speak without coughing, no interest in eating). I was already stage IV at that point. Lung cancers go undetected so often because we usually don't experience any symptoms. I'm glad your family doc ordered the chest x-ray!
I haven't experienced the leg swelling that you continue to experience. Did they check your heart as part of a pre-op appointment?