What are the Different Stages of Esophageal Cancer?
Esophageal cancer is a formidable disease that affects the esophagus, the hollow tube that carries food and liquids...
Treatment
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the lungs, which are essential organs responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide during respiration. It is one of the most prevalent and deadly forms of cancer worldwide, affecting both men and women. Lung cancer develops when normal lung cells undergo abnormal changes, leading to uncontrolled growth and the formation of tumors.
There are two main types of lung cancer: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), which are further categorized based on their specific cell characteristics. NSCLC accounts for about 80% to 85% of all lung cancers, while SCLC makes up approximately 10% to 15%.
Frequently Asked Questions
See, seriousness depends on cancer stage and type. We’ll do complete staging with PET-CT scan and other tests. Don’t worry too much – nowadays we have many effective treatment options available.
Treatment plan depends on several factors – cancer stage, type, your general health. We might need surgery, or a combination of chemotherapy and radiation. Sometimes we use targeted/immuno therapy also. We’ll discuss best option for your specific case.
Not always immediate. First we need proper staging. Sometimes we give chemotherapy before surgery to shrink tumor.
See, survival rates have improved significantly with modern treatments. Early stage cancers have very good outcomes. But rather than statistics, let’s focus on your specific case and plan the best treatment approach.
Usually 3-4 hours for VATS/robotic procedure. We use minimally invasive techniques – small cuts only. Recovery is much faster compared to traditional surgery.
Yes, there can be side effects like fatigue, nausea. But we have very good medicines to manage these. Remember, not everyone gets all side effects. We’ll monitor you closely and adjust treatment if needed.
After surgery, usually 6-8 weeks for a desk job. Physical work might need 3 months. During chemotherapy, some patients continue working, some need more rest. We’ll plan according to your condition.
We’ll do regular follow-ups to monitor carefully. Risk of recurrence depends on many factors. That’s why completing full treatment and regular check-ups are very important.
Light exercise like walking is actually good during treatment. Helps maintain strength and reduces fatigue. But no heavy exercise until we clear you.
Healthy, protein-rich diet is important. Small, frequent meals if you have poor appetite. Our dietitian will give proper diet plan. Most important – stay well hydrated.
If there’s strong family history, yes, good to get screening done. Especially if family members smoke. We can arrange low-dose CT screening.
First year, every 3 months. Second year, every 6 months. After that, yearly if everything stable. But if any new symptoms develop, contact me immediately.
Most important – no smoking absolutely. Maintain good nutrition, regular exercise as advised, proper rest. Avoid too much stress. We’ll guide you through lifestyle modifications.
Between chemotherapy cycles, if blood counts are good, short trips are okay. But always discuss travel plans with us first. Keep emergency contacts handy.
We have complete support team – counselors, dietitians, physiotherapists. Also can connect you with support groups. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.
Note: “See, lung cancer treatment is like marathon, not sprint. We’ll be with you at every step. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions – my team and I are always here to help.”
