Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Your Guide to
Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Targeted therapy. These drugs and antibodies stop cancer cells from growing and spreading in very specific ways. Because of how they work, they usually harm normal cells less than radiation and chemo.
Laser and photodynamic therapy (PDT). A beam of high-intensity light can kill cancer cells, too. PDT uses a special laser light to "turn on" special drugs that have been absorbed by cancer cells. This helps avoid damage to healthy tissue.
Clinical trials. Scientists are studying new ways to treat cancer. Check the National Cancer Institute's web site and ask your doctor if a clinical trial would be a good fit for you.
Let your doctor know if you're in pain or short of breath. There are ways to ease these and other symptoms so you feel better day to day.
Follow your treatment plan. Pay attention to any changes you feel. Make sure your doctor knows how you're doing, both physically and emotionally.
Some days during treatment, your appetite may not be great, but you'll need to eat well to keep your strength and energy up. Try eating several small meals throughout the day instead of a few large ones.
When you have trouble breathing, oxygen from a tank may help. So can practicing relaxation techniques, like listening to music or picturing yourself in a peaceful place. Complementary treatments, including gentle massage and aromatherapy, may put you more at ease. Talk to your doctor about what you can do when you're tired, in pain, or breathless.
Also, ask about other professionals who can help support you -- perhaps social workers, nurses, clergymen, or other doctors.
A diagnosis of cancer can be very hard to deal with. You may be afraid, angry, or sad. Strong emotions are normal. A support group or a counselor who works with people who have cancer could help you work through your feelings. Look online or in your community, or ask your doctor for suggestions.
If it's caught early enough, your cancer may be curable.
Even if it's not, your treatment should help you live longer and feel better. Some people look at advanced cancer as a chronic disease to be managed, so you can live your life to the fullest. You can make choices about what's best for you.
Treatment continued...
Your Guide to
Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
- What Is Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)?
- Causes
- Symptoms
- Getting a Diagnosis
- Questions for Your Doctor
- Treatment
- Taking Care of Yourself
- What to Expect
- Getting Support
Targeted therapy. These drugs and antibodies stop cancer cells from growing and spreading in very specific ways. Because of how they work, they usually harm normal cells less than radiation and chemo.
Laser and photodynamic therapy (PDT). A beam of high-intensity light can kill cancer cells, too. PDT uses a special laser light to "turn on" special drugs that have been absorbed by cancer cells. This helps avoid damage to healthy tissue.
Clinical trials. Scientists are studying new ways to treat cancer. Check the National Cancer Institute's web site and ask your doctor if a clinical trial would be a good fit for you.
Let your doctor know if you're in pain or short of breath. There are ways to ease these and other symptoms so you feel better day to day.
Taking Care of Yourself
Follow your treatment plan. Pay attention to any changes you feel. Make sure your doctor knows how you're doing, both physically and emotionally.
Some days during treatment, your appetite may not be great, but you'll need to eat well to keep your strength and energy up. Try eating several small meals throughout the day instead of a few large ones.
When you have trouble breathing, oxygen from a tank may help. So can practicing relaxation techniques, like listening to music or picturing yourself in a peaceful place. Complementary treatments, including gentle massage and aromatherapy, may put you more at ease. Talk to your doctor about what you can do when you're tired, in pain, or breathless.
Also, ask about other professionals who can help support you -- perhaps social workers, nurses, clergymen, or other doctors.
A diagnosis of cancer can be very hard to deal with. You may be afraid, angry, or sad. Strong emotions are normal. A support group or a counselor who works with people who have cancer could help you work through your feelings. Look online or in your community, or ask your doctor for suggestions.
What to Expect
If it's caught early enough, your cancer may be curable.
Even if it's not, your treatment should help you live longer and feel better. Some people look at advanced cancer as a chronic disease to be managed, so you can live your life to the fullest. You can make choices about what's best for you.
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