Receiving a lung cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and scary. However, it is important to remember that there are a variety of treatment options available to help you fight this disease. This blog post will explore some of the different treatments for lung cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
Surgery
Surgery is often used to remove tumors in the lungs in cases where the cancer has not spread beyond the lungs. There are several types of surgeries that may be performed, including wedge resection, lobectomy, and pneumonectomy. Your healthcare team will determine which type of surgery is most appropriate based on the size and location of the tumor. While surgery can be an effective treatment option for some patients, it may not be suitable for everyone.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing and dividing. It is often used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery or radiation therapy. Chemotherapy can have side effects such as nausea, hair loss, and fatigue, but these side effects are usually temporary. Your healthcare team will work with you to manage any side effects and ensure that you are as comfortable as possible during treatment.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells in the lungs. It may be used alone or in combination with other treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy. Radiation therapy can cause side effects such as fatigue, skin changes, and difficulty swallowing, but these side effects typically go away once treatment is completed.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy targets specific genes or proteins that contribute to the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body. This type of treatment is often used for patients with certain types of non-small cell lung cancer who have specific genetic mutations. Targeted therapy can be more effective than traditional chemotherapy and may have fewer side effects.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy works by helping the body's immune system recognize and attack cancer cells in the lungs. This type of treatment has shown promising results in patients with advanced lung cancer who have not responded well to other treatments. Immunotherapy can have side effects such as fatigue, skin rashes, and diarrhea, but these side effects are usually manageable.
While receiving a lung cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, it is important to remember that there are many treatment options available. By working closely with your healthcare team and understanding the different treatments for lung cancer, you can develop a personalized treatment plan that gives you the best chance of fighting this disease.
Learn more from a clinic near you, like Alaska Oncology and Hematology LLC.
