Lung cancer, a disease that makes people turn pale, is threatening the lives and health of countless people. However, with the continuous progress of medical technology, the treatment of lung cancer is also increasing. For lung cancer patients, it is very important to understand the disease, actively cooperate with the treatment and do a good job of self-management.
1. Understanding lung cancer refers to malignant tumors originating in the lungs, which are mainly divided into non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer. The causes of morbidity are complex, mainly related to smoking, air pollution, occupational exposure, genetic factors and so on. Early symptoms of lung cancer may not be obvious, with the development of the disease, patients may appear cough, sputum, hemoptysis, chest pain, expiratory dyspnoea, weight loss and other symptoms.
2. Diagnosis of lung cancer If the above symptoms occur, they should seek medical treatment in time. Doctors will make a definite diagnosis according to the patient’s symptoms, signs, imaging examinations (such as chest X-ray, CT scan, etc.), pathological examinations (such as bronchoscopic biopsy, lung biopsy, etc.). Early diagnosis is essential for the treatment of lung cancer, so high-risk groups (such as long-term smokers, family history, exposure to harmful substances, etc.) Should have regular physical examination in order to detect lung cancer early.
3. Treatment of lung cancer 1. Surgical treatment • For patients with early lung cancer, surgery is the main treatment. Surgery can remove the tumor tissue and achieve the purpose of radical cure. • After surgery, patients should pay attention to rest and follow the doctor’s advice for rehabilitation exercises, such as deep breathing, coughing, etc., to promote the recovery of lung function. At the same time, we should pay attention to wound care to avoid infection. 2. Radiotherapy • Radiotherapy is a treatment that uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with surgery, chemotherapy, etc. • During radiotherapy, patients may experience adverse reactions such as skin damage, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Should keep the skin clean, avoid friction and stimulation; pay attention to rest, ensure adequate sleep; diet to light, digestible food, increase the intake of nutrients. 3. Chemotherapy • Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses chemicals to kill cancer cells. It can be administered systemically and is particularly important for patients with advanced lung cancer. • Chemotherapy may cause nausea, vomiting, hair loss, bone marrow suppression and other adverse reactions. Patients can use antiemetic drugs to prevent nausea and vomiting before chemotherapy; for alopecia, should maintain an optimistic attitude, can wear wigs or hats; regular review of blood routine, if there is bone marrow suppression, should be given appropriate treatment in time. 4. Targeted therapy • Targeted therapy is the treatment of specific gene mutations or molecular targets. It has the advantages of strong pertinence, small side effect and the like. • Before targeted therapy, patients need genetic testing to determine whether they are suitable for targeted therapy. During treatment, medication should be taken strictly according to the doctor’s requirements, and the adverse reactions of drugs should be observed, such as rash, diarrhea, etc. 5. Immunotherapy • Immunotherapy is a treatment that activates the body’s own immune system to fight cancer cells. Immunotherapy may cause immune-related adverse reactions, such as rash, thyroid dysfunction, etc. Patients should be reexamined regularly and seek medical treatment in time if there is any abnormality.
4. Self-management of lung cancer patients 1. Dietary management • Lung cancer patients should ensure balanced nutrition and eat more foods rich in protein, vitamins and minerals, such as lean meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, fresh vegetables and fruits. Avoid spicy, greasy and stimulating food. • For patients with loss of appetite, we can take the way of eating less and more meals, increase the frequency of eating, and ensure the intake of nutrition. 2. Psychological adjustment • Lung cancer patients often face tremendous psychological pressure, such as fear, anxiety, depression and so on. These negative emotions will affect the treatment effect and quality of life of patients. • Patients should actively adjust their attitude and maintain an optimistic mood. You can communicate with your family and friends to share your feelings. You can also join some mutual aid organizations for lung cancer patients to get support and encouragement. 3. Exercise • Proper exercise can enhance physical fitness, improve immunity and alleviate fatigue. Lung cancer patients can choose suitable exercise methods according to their physical condition, such as walking, Tai Chi, yoga and so on. • Exercise should be gradual and avoid overwork. If you feel uncomfortable during exercise, you should stop exercising immediately and seek medical treatment in time. 4. Regular review • Lung cancer patients should be reviewed regularly after treatment in order to detect changes in the condition in time and adjust the treatment plan. The reexamination items included chest CT, blood routine, liver and kidney function, tumor markers and so on. In short, although lung cancer is a serious disease, as long as patients actively cooperate with the treatment and do a good job of self-management, it is possible to overcome the disease and rekindle the light of life. Let’s join hands to fight against lung cancer and work for the health and happiness of patients.
Lung cancer
