Common Treatment Options for Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a very serious disease that can cause uncomfortable symptoms at its best and death at its worst. And though lung cancer is a devastating diagnosis, it doesn’t have to be a death sentence. There are many treatments available for this disease that can slow down tumor growth, reduce symptoms, extend life and in some cases, cure it. But before you seek out treatments, you need to know what options are available to you.

Surgery

One of the most common treatments for lung cancer is surgery. However, this can only be used if the tumor is relatively small and it has not metastasized to other parts of the body. And while removal of the tumor doesn’t necessarily cure the cancer, it can significantly extend life and improve the quality of life. Of course, whether or not surgery can be used will depend on where the tumor is located in the lung. Either the tumor will be removed by means of laser or surgery that requires opening of the chest wall.

Radiation Therapy

Another common treatment for lung cancer is radiation therapy. It involves pointing x-rays at the area that requires treatment with the intention of killing cancer cells and preventing them from replicating. This can lessen the symptoms of this disease and prolong life. It can also help to improve breathing by reducing the size of tumors that can obstruct the airway.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is another treatment commonly used for lung cancer. Drugs are introduced into the body either orally or intravenously that are made to target cancer cells. Several drugs are usually combined for optimum effects. This treatment type may also be combined with radiation therapy to maximize the results. Chemotherapy can also be used following surgery to prevent any remaining cancer cells from spreading to other parts of the body.