The Side Effects of Lung Cancer Treatments

Side effects from lung cancer treatments vary from person to person, and are often temporary. The doctors and nurses can explain possible side effects of a particular treatment plan, and ways to alleviate discomfort during and after treatment.

Surgical Side Effects

Lung cancer surgery is a major operation. Air and fluid tend to collect in the chest after surgery, so it is important to do things such as coughing, turning over, and breathing deeply to help remove the excess air/fluid. Soreness in the chest and arm and shortness of breath are common side effects of lung surgery. It takes weeks or even months to regain strength and energy after this procedure.

Lung Cancer Surgery Recovery from A.D.A.M.

Chemotherapy Side Effects

Chemotherapy side effects depend on the types of drugs used and how much was given. Chemotherapy affects normal cells as well as cancerous cells. Common side effects include:

• nausea and vomiting
• hair loss
• mouth sores
• fatigue

More on Chemotherapy Side Effects

Radiation Therapy Side Effects

Like chemotherapy, radiation therapy also affects normal cells. Side effects depend on what part of the body is being treated, and how strong the dose is. Side effects may include:

• nausea and vomiting
• hair loss
• difficulty swallowing
• dry, sore throat
• fatigue
• skin changes at the site of the treatment
• loss of appetite

Patients receiving radiation treatments to the brain may experience:

• headaches
• skin changes
• nausea and vomiting
• fatigue
• hair loss
• problems with thought and memory processes

Managing the Effects of Radiation Therapy

Photodynamic Therapy Side Effects

Photodynamic therapy makes the person's eyes and skin very sensitive to light for 6 weeks or more after treatment ends. It is recommended that these people not go outside if possible, and to avoid bright indoor light as well. If they must go out, protective clothing and sunglasses are a must. Other side effects of this treatment may include:

• coughing
• difficulty swallowing
• painful breathing, or shortness of breath.

If swelling, redness, or blistering appears on the skin, people should consult with their doctors as to how to treat it.

_{Information for this article obtained from NCI, which is a division of The National Institutes of Health (NIH).}