Lung Cancer: Diet, Treatment & Side Effects

Understanding Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the most common type of cancer in Malaysia. It is a cancer that occurs when cells in the lung tissue grow uncontrollably and form tumours that can spread to other tissues and organs in the body. Lung cancer is a serious disease that can be fatal if not detected and treated properly.

What is the Treatment for Lung Cancer?

The treatment for lung cancer is determined by the stage of the disease and the patient's overall health. Lung cancer treatment is divided into two categories: systemic treatment and alternative treatment.

Systemic Treatment

Systemic treatment refers to treatment that involves the body to destroy cancer cells, such as:

1.  Surgery

Surgery is a lung cancer treatment that removes the tumour, as well as part or all of the cancerous lung. Lung cancer surgery can be classified into several types, including:

• Lobectomy: A surgical procedure that removes a portion of the lung.

• Pneumonectomy: A surgical removal of the entire cancerous lung

.

• Segmentectomy: It is a surgical procedure that removes the tumour as well as a small portion of the lung. It is also known as a wedge resection.

​

2.  Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is a lung cancer treatment that uses high-energy X-rays or gamma rays to destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be used prior to or after surgery, or it can be used as the primary treatment if surgery is not an option.

3.  Oral and Injectable Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a lung cancer treatment that involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be administered orally or via injection. Cisplatin, Carboplatin and Paclitaxel are some chemotherapy drugs.

4.  Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is a lung cancer treatment that involves the use of drugs designed specifically to treat cancer cells without damaging normal cells in the body. Examples of targeted therapies include PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors.

5.  Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a lung cancer treatment that involves the use of drugs to help the body's immune system fight cancer cells. Immunotherapeutic drugs include pembrolizumab, durvalumab, and atezolizumab.

Alternative Treatment

Alternative treatment is a method of treatment that differs from conventional medical treatment. Alternative treatment can be used in addition to conventional treatment, but it is not recommended as the sole treatment option for lung cancer. Here are a few examples of alternative treatments:

1.  Meditation & Hypnosis

Meditation and hypnosis are alternative treatment methods that involve a deep state of relaxation to help reduce stress and improve well-being.

This method can help reduce pain and anxiety in lung cancer patients, but it is not the only treatment option.

2.  Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a complementary or alternative method that involves inserting small needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the body's energy and aid in healing.

This method can help alleviate the pain and nausea associated with lung cancer treatment.

3.  Massage

Massage is an alternative treatment method that uses gentle movements and pressure on the body's muscles and tissues to reduce stress and improve blood flow.

This method can help cancer patients reduce their pain and anxiety.

4.  Yoga

Yoga is an alternative treatment method that focuses on improving strength and well-being through body movements, breathing and meditation.

This method can help alleviate the pain, stress, and nausea associated with lung cancer treatment.

Side Effects of Lung Cancer Treatment

Lung cancer treatment includes a variety of therapies aimed at eliminating cancer cells in the lungs. However, this treatment may have adverse effects on a patient's health.

The following are some of the possible side effects of lung cancer treatment:

1.  Numbness or weakness in hands and feet - This occurs as a result of radiation therapy or chemotherapy affecting the nerves in the treated area. This side effect may last for several weeks or months after treatment.

2.  Loss of appetite - Patients with lung cancer may experience appetite loss following treatment. Most patients experience nausea or vomiting, making it difficult to eat.

3.  Breathing difficulties - Lung cancer patients may experience breathing difficulties during or after treatment. This is due to radiation or chemotherapy affecting the lungs.

4.  Sleep problems - Lung cancer patients may experience sleeping problems after treatment. This is due to pain, anxiety or therapy side effects.

5.  Hair loss - Patients with lung cancer may experience hair loss as a result of radiation therapy or chemotherapy. This can have a significant psychological impact on patients, particularly women.

6.  Fatigue - Patients with lung cancer may experience fatigue and weakness during treatment. This is because aggressive lung cancer treatment causes significant changes in our bodies.

7.  Infection risk - As chemotherapy weakens the immune system, lung cancer patients may be at increased risk of infection.

8.  Emotional problems - Treatment for lung cancer can have a significant impact on a patient's emotions. They may be depressed, anxious or concerned about their future.

9.  Long-term effects - Patients with lung cancer who have received chemotherapy or radiation therapy may experience long-term effects such as organ failure or second cancer.

Tips to Manage Side Effects

Lung cancer side effects can have a significant impact on the quality of life of patients and their families. It is critical to take precautions to mitigate these side effects. Here are some tips for dealing with the side effects of lung cancer in Malaysia:

• Reduce Fatigue and Weakness

Lung cancer patients frequently experience extreme fatigue and weakness. Patients must engage in light activities such as walking or light exercise to reduce these side effects. Patients must also get enough rest.

• Eat Healthily

Patients need to consume a healthy and balanced diet to ensure that their body gets sufficient nutrition. Fruits and vegetables, whole grains, as well as lean protein are all examples of healthy foods.

• Maintain Personal Hygiene

Patients must maintain personal hygiene by protecting their hands and bodies from germs and bacteria. Always wash your hands with soap to avoid germs.

• Follow Treatment Properly

Patients must adhere to their doctor's treatment plans and attend appointments on time. Lung cancer side effects can be reduced with proper treatment and management.

• Consult Your Doctor About Potential Side Effects.

Patients should discuss any side effects they are experiencing with their doctors. Doctors can assist by providing advice and treatment to manage these side effects.

• Get Support from Family and Friends

Patients may seek help from family and friends to cope with the side effects of lung cancer. Loved ones' emotional and physical support can help improve the patient's quality of life.

• Join Support Groups

Patients can take part in lung cancer support groups. This allows patients to meet others who are going through the same thing and share their experiences.

Protect Your Lungs Today

Lungs are vital organs in the human body. To reduce the risk of lung cancer, it is critical to take preventive measures such as quitting smoking and adopting a healthy lifestyle. Although lung cancer treatment can have unfavourable side effects, effective treatment can help patients improve their quality of life and life expectancy.

​