Lung Cancer Day: How to Effectively Manage the Side Effects of Chemotherapy?

Living with lung cancer is not easy. Treatment like chemotherapy also has its own side effects. An expert explains how to manage it effectively.

Cancer itself is one of the leading causes of death worldwide and lung cancer is one of them. According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), smoking is one of the major reasons that can lead to lung cancer. Living with lung cancer can be challenging, especially when you are undergoing chemotherapy. There are certain side effects of the treatment that can also make the patient’s life a little tougher. However, there are ways to manage it. India.com got in touch with Dr Indranil Banerjee DNB, DAA Consultant, Pulmonology, Critical Care, Allergy & Sleep, Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Chennai, who explained and explained in detail the side effects of chemotherapy and how to manage the symptoms of lung cancer.

8 ways to manage the side effects of chemotherapy

1. Fatigue: Chemotherapy can cause severe fatigue, weakness and lack of energy that do not go away with rest. Get enough rest and sleep. Pace yourself and prioritize essential activities. Engage in gentle exercise, such as walking or yoga, to boost energy levels.
2. Nausea and vomiting: Treatment can sometimes cause stomach upset and vomiting, which affects appetite and hydration. Use anti-nausea medications prescribed by your doctor. Avoid greasy or spicy foods and stay hydrated. Drink ginger tea or ginger candy to soothe your stomach.
3. Loss of appetite: Maintaining weight becomes a challenge and can lead to malnutrition due to loss of appetite during treatment. Incorporate plenty of nutrients into your diet in the form of avocados, nuts, and protein shakes. Consider taking nutritional supplements if recommended by your doctor.
4. Hair loss: Chemotherapy drugs act on cells that divide the fastest, including hair follicles, which causes hair loss. Avoid using harsh shampoos and keep treatments to a minimum. Use hats, scarves or wigs to protect and cover your head.
5. Mouth ulcers: This can lead to a sore throat or ulcers, making it uncomfortable to swallow food or even talk. Don’t use a hard-bristled toothbrush and rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free mouthwash. Eat moderately pureed foods, such as mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soups. Apply pain-relieving mouth gels or opt for prescription medications.
6. Respiratory difficulties: Lung cancer has long-term effects on the respiratory system, such as shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. Breathe slowly and deeply or use other breathing exercises suggested by your therapist. Use prescribed oxygen therapy if needed. Sit up or, to make breathing easier, use pillows to support your upper body while lying down.
7. Digestive problems: Chemotherapy can cause constipation, diarrhea, and other digestive problems. Eat low-fiber foods, such as bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, and other similar foods. Drink plenty of water to aid digestion, and avoid foods such as dairy products, fats, and caffeine.
8. Peripheral neuropathy: Neuropathy can cause tingling or numbness in the hands and feet and sometimes severe pain. Use prescription medications to relieve nerve pain. Avoid activities that may cause injury to your hands and feet. To relieve aches and stiffness, use warm compresses and do exercises to improve mobility.

Additionally, psychosocial well-being can be compromised as a result of lung cancer treatment with chemotherapy, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. Professional counseling or therapy, participation in cancer support groups, and mindfulness or meditation techniques are very helpful in addressing these emotional issues. Remember to always consult with your doctor to focus on your progress and individual needs to improve quality of life and manage the side effects of chemotherapy during lung cancer treatment.