In recent years, with the development of medical imaging technology and the increasing awareness of health check ups, more and more people have discovered that they have "lung nodules" through lung CT scans. This medical term often causes panic and even associates it with lung cancer. Many people fall into anxiety and even blindly accept overtreatment after discovering lung nodules due to a lack of correct cognition; Some people also miss the best intervention opportunity due to neglecting follow-up. So, when lung nodules are discovered, people can't help but ask, "What should I do?" Professor Wang Jinliang from the Oncology Department of the Fifth Medical Center of the People's Liberation Army General Hospital told everyone: Lung nodules ≠ lung cancer! The vast majority of nodules are benign, but scientific understanding and standardized management are crucial. The management of pulmonary nodules should follow the principle of "early detection, accurate assessment, dynamic observation, and cautious decision-making", neither causing excessive anxiety and overtreatment, nor delaying the progression of the disease. What is pulmonary nodule? The so-called pulmonary nodules refer to circular or irregular lesions with a diameter of ≤ 3 centimeters that appear in the lung tissue, usually detected by imaging examinations such as CT. According to size, it can be divided into: tiny nodules (<5 millimeters), the vast majority of which are benign and require regular follow-up; Small nodules (5-10 millimeters) should be assessed for risk based on their morphological characteristics; Larger nodules (>10 millimeters) should be alert to the possibility of malignancy. According to density, it can be divided into solid nodules, uniform high-density shadows, and clear boundaries; Ground glass nodules, uniform semi transparent shadows, resembling frosted glass, do not conceal bronchial vascular structures; Mixed nodules, coexistence of solid and ground glass components, with a high risk of malignancy. How do pulmonary nodules come about? Common causes include infection and inflammation, benign lesions, malignant tumors, environment, and lifestyle habits. How do I know if a pulmonary nodule is benign or malignant? Research has shown that over 90% of lung nodules discovered during physical examinations are benign or old lesions. To diagnose whether a lung nodule is benign or malignant, a comprehensive evaluation is required based on the size, density, and morphology of the nodule observed on CT scans, as well as the patient's age, smoking history, family history, and disease history. On the basis of lung CT examination, when it is difficult to determine the nature of lung nodules, it is sometimes recommended to re-examine lung CT dynamic observation of nodule changes at intervals of several months, or further perform PET-CT examination to check the metabolic status of nodules, and even perform puncture biopsy or bronchoscopy live examination to clarify based on tissue pathology. Blood tumor marker assay can also be referred to assist in judgment. What are the methods for treating pulmonary nodules? Firstly, after discovering pulmonary nodules, there is no need to be nervous or anxious, as the vast majority of pulmonary nodules are benign and only require follow-up observation. Even if malignant pulmonary nodules are suspected, there are various means and methods to achieve curative effects. So, when you discover lung nodules, go to the hospital to find a specialist doctor, especially now many hospitals have multidisciplinary joint clinics for lung cancer and lung nodules, which can provide patients with the most professional, accurate, and suitable diagnosis and treatment advice. Doctors will recommend follow-up observation or targeted treatment for pulmonary nodules based on the assessment results and taking into account the patient's age, physical condition, comorbidities, personal preferences, etc. How can patients with pulmonary nodules undergo psychological adjustment? When patients know they have pulmonary nodules, they often experience various psychological and physical discomforts. The most common psychological problem is anxiety type, often thinking: "Do I have lung cancer?" "Will the nodules suddenly enlarge?" "Will they metastasize?" "I wish I could have a lung CT scan again in a few days. In addition, there are also avoidant individuals who feel that "there are no symptoms anyway, so there is no need to take care of them". Even ignoring the presence of pulmonary nodules and not conducting follow-up examinations. There is also an overtreatment type, which is like 'must be cut off immediately', thinking that only surgery can ensure no problems. Scientific responses are needed to address these situations. Including: receiving professional guidance, seeking treatment from specialized doctors, fully communicating with doctors, and understanding the specific risks of nodules; Establish a follow-up plan and mark the review time on the calendar to avoid forgetting or excessive worry; Adjust lifestyle, quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke; Increase foods rich in antioxidants such as dark vegetables, nuts, etc; Moderate exercise such as brisk walking, swimming, etc. can enhance lung function; In terms of psychological support, one can join the patient community, share experiences, and seek psychological counseling if anxiety is severe. (New Society)