Lung Cancer - A Practical Guide To Help You Manage It!

Cancer is not just a physical problem but an emotional one, not just for the patient but for the caretakers as well. While treating cancer per se is a task, managing the complications that arise out of it is another major issue. With environmental pollution and smoking on the rise, lung cancer incidences have also increased significantly.

Read on to know how to manage lung cancer, including some symptoms.
Emotionally, once the diagnosis is confirmed, there could be a mixed bag of feelings including fear, confusion, anxiety and uncertainty. Having a close family member or friend accompany you on medical visits certainly helps, as they can guide in asking the right questions and interpreting things the right way.

Being a part of social groups helps in coping with emotional stress that comes with the disease, as it reduces the feeling of loneliness and puts you in touch with others who are on the same journey.
Physically, some of the symptoms along with ways to manage are listed below.

1. Pain: One of the major symptoms of any cancer, pain can be severe and needs to be handled for the overall quality of life. Long-acting pain medications would be required to control pain, and if the still persists, one might have to go for short-acting pain killers for immediate pain control. In addition, warm massages, oil therapies, meditation, and Ayurvedic therapies can do wonders in managing the pain.
2. Smoke exposure: One of the main causes of lung cancer, exposure to smoke should be avoided at all costs. While quitting smoking is a must, exposure to secondhand smoke should also be avoided. Any other form of tobacco is a strict no too.
3. Shortness of breath: With lung cancer, the lungs’ ability to supply oxygen to the various organs is reduced. This puts additional pressure on the lungs, and so can cause shortness of breath. Try to not exert the body, and with any physical strain, it is advisable to rest. Listen to your body’s signs and rest accordingly.
4. Weakened immunity: Chemotherapy weakens the immune system and puts you at risk for infections of all the organs. Therefore, eat healthy, drink lots of water including non-caffeinated beverages, exercise within limits that your body allows, and sleep well. This helps in improving the immune system. Reduce exposure to pollutants and to people who are not well. This can control chances of developing infections.
5. Cough and sore throat: Lung cancer puts one at risk of developing a chronic sore throat and cough. Drink warm liquids, avoid cold beverages, and keep your flu shots up to date.

While cancer definitely is a scary proposition, some simple things can help you cope better. Consult an Expert & get answers to your questions!