Lung Cancer Treatment

How is lung cancer treated?

Depending on the type of lung cancer and its stage, your provider will recommend the treatment options they think are best. Be sure to share your questions and concerns so you understand your options and the pros and cons. That way, you can make informed decisions about your treatment plan.

Lung cancer treatment options include: 

Surgery

Surgery is often used in early-stage lung cancer to remove the tumor and nearby lymph nodes. 

Surgery can often be performed with minimally invasive video-assisted or robotic techniques. These techniques use smaller incisions and can access parts of the lung that are harder to reach. 

Options include:

• Lobectomy: Removing an entire lobe (section) of the lung.
• Pneumonectomy: Removing an entire lung.
• Segmentectomy or wedge resection: Removing part of a lobe.

Side effects of surgery may include pain, infection and difficulty breathing.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays or particles to kill cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with other treatments. It is often used when surgery is not an option or to shrink tumors before surgery.

Side effects of radiation therapy may include fatigue, skin changes and trouble swallowing.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. You can take these drugs by mouth (orally) or injected into a vein (intravenously, or by IV). They are often used in cycles so they can be as effective as possible while giving your body time to recover.

Side effects of chemotherapy may include nausea, hair loss and a higher risk of infection.

Stereotactic body radiotherapy

This radiation treatment aims radiation at the cancer from many angles. It may be an option for small lung cancers if you can’t have surgery.

Side effects of stereotactic body radiotherapy may include fatigue, swelling and skin changes.

Targeted therapy

Targeted therapy uses medications designed to interfere with molecules that help cancer cells grow and spread. This may be an option based on the genetic mutations found in the cancer cells. It’s typically used if your lung cancer is larger, spreads, or comes back.

Side effects of targeted therapy may include skin rash, diarrhea and liver problems.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps your immune system spot and fight cancer cells. These treatments can be effective for certain types of lung cancer. It’s often used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) or when other treatments have not been successful.

Side effects of immunotherapy may include fatigue, skin reactions and flu-like symptoms.

Laser therapy

Laser therapy uses a laser beam to kill cancer cells. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) uses medication and a specific type of laser to kill cancer cells. 

Side effects of laser therapy include soreness, bleeding or infection.

Cryosurgery or electrocautery

These treatments help destroy cancer cells. Cryosurgery freezes cells, and electrocautery heats them.

Side effects of cryosurgery include coughing up blood, air leaking from the lung and lung infection.

Side effects of electrocautery include bleeding, breathing problems and lung infection.

Clinical trials

Clinical trials study new treatment options. You can talk to your cancer care team to see if you qualify for lung cancer clinical trials. 

Managing side effects of lung cancer treatment

Integrated therapy can help you manage any side effects. These tips can also help:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
• Eat a balanced, nutritious diet to help maintain your strength and energy.
• Get plenty of rest to help your body recover.
• Stay active, since gentle exercise can help reduce fatigue and improve your mood.
• Talk to your health care team about managing side effects and consider joining support groups.

Getting support when you have lung cancer

Coping with lung cancer can be challenging. Here are some resources that can help:

• Emotional and psychological support: Professional counselors and support groups can provide emotional support and help you cope with the psychological impact of lung cancer. Counselors give you a safe space to process your emotions and can help you learn coping strategies. In support groups, you can share experiences and gain strength from others dealing with similar challenges.
• Nutritional support: Good nutrition is important during cancer treatment. Dietitians can give you personalized advice to help manage side effects, maintain your energy and support your overall health.
• Palliative care: Palliative care can help improve your quality of life if you have advanced lung cancer. It includes pain management, symptom relief and emotional support. It can help you and your family navigate complex health care decisions.
• As part of palliative care, your provider may suggest an endoscopic stent. This device can be placed in your airway to help open it up if it’s blocked by abnormal tissue. Side effects of stent placement include respiratory tract infections and movement or breaking of the stent. 

Living with lung cancer

When you’re living with lung cancer, you’ll want to manage your physical health, maintain your emotional well-being and connect with resources so you can have the best quality of life possible. With comprehensive treatment and support, you can navigate your journey with resilience and hope.

It can help to:

• Stay Informed: Learn about your condition and treatment options.
• Communicate: Be honest with your health care team.
• Set realistic goals: Focus on achievable daily tasks so you feel a sense of accomplishment.
• Find support: Lean on family, friends and support groups for emotional strength and practical help with tasks like meal prep, child or pet care and transportation.
• Make healthy lifestyle choices: Continue healthy eating, get regular exercise and avoid tobacco.
• Care for your mental health: Spend time doing activities that support your mental well-being, like hobbies, meditation or therapy.
• Get regular check-ups: Make sure you keep your follow-up appointments so you can monitor your health and detect any issues as soon as possible. 

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