The news of a cancer diagnosis is something every patient dreads when they visit the examination room. Modern medicine has, however, made several milestones in coming up with new and improved treatment solutions for cancer patients.
However, one thing that still stands out in cancer treatment is that cancer can best be treated and handled during the early stages. Because of that, you are encouraged to schedule regular checkups at the doctor to get a clean bill of health.To fight cancer, we need to know what we are fighting. Cancer refers to any of a large number of diseases that are characterized by the growth, development, and spread of abnormal cells.These cells are known to divide uncontrollably with the ability to infiltrate and destroy normal body tissues. Unlike tumors, cancerous cells can spread out through the entire body making cancer the second leading cause of death in the world.This article is focused on lung cancer and the treatment options for the symptoms of lung cancer. Before that, we can look at the causes and symptoms of lung cancer.Causes of Lung CancerThere are several causes of lung cancer with the main ones including,• Family history of lung cancer.• Smoking, both passive and active.• Exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens.• Exposure to radon gas.• Previous radiation therapy from a treatment routine for different cancer.• Exposure to secondhand smoke, for example, burning tires and trash.• Exposure to high levels of air pollution, especially in industrial areas.Cancer has been known to remain dormant in the body, only exhibiting a few symptoms at a time; that is why most healthcare givers recommend a regular cancer screening, probably once a year. This is especially for people with a family history of cancer in the family. To stay ahead of lung cancer, you need to be able to recognize some of the common symptoms of the diseases so you can take the necessary cause of action.
A persistent cough that changes from time to timeKeep an eye out for a new cough that won’t go away. Normal coughs go away after a short period. However, a long-lasting cough could be a precursor to lung cancer. You also need to look out for chronic coughs characterized by a deeper and hoarse sound. Check if you’re coughing brings out blood or too much mucus.Changes in breathingBeing easily winded or suffering from shortness of breath should be a concern. You should listen to the wheezing sound when breathing. This is usually a symptom of inflamed respiratory systems but can also be a sign of lung cancer.Body PainLung cancer can be characterized by pain within the chest area, shoulders, and back. During your doctor's visit, you should be more elaborate about the specific areas for pain. Frequent headaches could also mean cancer has spread to the brain.Raspy, hoarse voiceWhen someone points out a change in your voice, stating it to sound deeper, hoarse, or even raspy, you need to consult with your doctor. A voice change caused by cold changes after a short period of time.Drop-in weightAn unexpected drop in weight could be a sign of cancer or any other type of cancer. This is because cancer cells generally use up a lot of energy. This could also be a change in how the body utilizes the energy synthesized from food.
Palliative careWith the side effects of the treatment taking a toll on the patient coupled with the signs and symptoms, a patient may find themselves overwhelmed. Palliative care is a branch of medicine that involves working with your doctor to reduce the signs and symptoms as well as the effects of the treatment. This care involves reading you for the treatment process ahead.HypnosisThis procedure is usually carried out by a therapist who initiates a series of relaxation exercises. The therapist encourages the patient to focus on positive and happy thoughts during these sessions. This helps to relieve pain, nausea, and anxiety in the patient. This method can also work efficiently with meditation, where the patient focuses their thoughts on a specific idea or object. This will help to reduce stress in the patient during treatment.AcupunctureThough still under scientific study, this method has been known to treat symptoms such as body pains effectively. The treatment has also been known to work for treatment side effects such as nausea and vomiting.Radiation TherapyThis treatment method uses high-powered energy beams like x-rays and protons to target and destroys cancer cells. For patients with cancer confined to their lungs, this treatment can be used either before or after surgery. The treatment involves lying on a table and a machine moving around you while directing the radiation to specific points of the body. This treatment method works best as a combined treatment with chemotherapy. This treatment is also used in advanced lung cancer patients to relieve pain.ChemotherapyThis treatment involves the use of several drugs to kill cancer cells. Some of the drugs are administered intravenously, while others are ingested orally. This treatment method involves following a strict treatment plan over a given period of time with intervals of breaks to give the body a fighting chance. This treatment is usually effective after surgery to get rid of any cells that may have remained. Combined with radiation therapy, they can be used to shrink cancer cells, making them easier to remove. Chemotherapy can also be used in patients with advanced cancer to relieve pain and other symptoms.Supplemental oxygenFor patients experiencing shortness of breath, the use of supplemental oxygen alongside other medications can help manage the situation. Patients are encouraged to relax a lot, find a comfortable position and concentrate on their breathing.Your health is your number one priority. You should not take any chances with your health. Please make a point to schedule regular screening and tests with our healthcare giver to stay ahead of any disease.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.
