Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths, but early detection can make all the difference. If you qualify for a lung cancer screening, it’s natural to feel unsure about what to expect. Fortunately, by learning more about the process, you can approach your appointment with confidence and peace of mind.
At Altoona Lung Specialists, our experienced team is dedicated to providing expert pulmonology care to patients in Altoona, PA, and the surrounding areas. We specialize in offering advanced screenings and preventative care to help detect lung cancer early and improve outcomes. Don’t put your health on hold—schedule an appointment with us today to take the next step toward safeguarding your lung health.
Keep reading to learn more about what happens during a lung cancer screening and how we guide you every step of the way.
Preparing for Your Lung Cancer Screening
Preparing for a lung cancer screening is simple and painless. You won't need to make significant changes to your daily routine (like fasting or taking special medications), but it's helpful to wear comfortable clothing without metal zippers, buttons, or jewelry, as these can interfere with imaging.
During your initial consultation, our specialists at Altoona Lung Specialists will discuss your medical history, any current symptoms, and potential risk factors, such as smoking history, family health history, or occupational exposure. Being open and honest about your history will help us determine the best possible care plan tailored to your needs.
What Happens During a Lung Cancer Screening?
Your lung cancer screening will involve a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan—a highly advanced imaging technique specifically designed for early lung cancer detection. The process is straightforward, painless, and quick, typically lasting only a few minutes.
Here’s a step-by-step overview of the LDCT procedure:
- Check-in and Preparation: Upon arrival, our friendly staff will guide you through the check-in process. Once in the exam room, you'll be comfortably positioned on the scanner table.
- The Scanning Process: During the scan, the table gently moves you into the CT scanner, which is a large, donut-shaped device. You'll be asked to remain still and briefly hold your breath while the scanner captures detailed images of your lungs.
- Duration and Comfort: The entire scan takes just a few minutes. It’s completely non-invasive, involving no needles, injections, or discomfort. Patients often report the process as stress-free and easy.
Understanding the Results
After your screening, our team of experts will thoroughly analyze your LDCT images. Results are typically available quickly, and we'll schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss them with you in detail. The results will generally fall into one of the following categories:
- Normal: No suspicious findings. We usually recommend continuing with annual screenings to monitor your lung health and make sure nothing new needs to be addressed.
- Indeterminate: Small, non-specific abnormalities may appear. These often require follow-up screenings to monitor potential changes over time.
- Abnormal: If we detect a suspicious nodule or lesion, additional tests (such as further imaging or biopsies) may be necessary to clarify the diagnosis.
Next Steps After Screening
If your screening results require additional follow-up, our specialists will clearly outline the next steps. This might include additional diagnostic tests or consultations with our multidisciplinary team. Altoona Lung Specialists is committed to providing compassionate guidance throughout the entire process, ensuring you understand your results and feel fully supported.
Your Lung Health Matters. Book Your Screening Today.
Early detection is a powerful tool in fighting lung cancer. Altoona Lung Specialists is here to help you take proactive steps toward protecting your lung health. Our advanced lung cancer screening services, combined with our compassionate and expert care, give you confidence and peace of mind.
Don't wait until symptoms arise—schedule your lung cancer screening with Altoona Lung Specialists today and take control of your respiratory health.
