Most cases of stage 3 lung cancer are treated with combinations of radiation therapy, chemotherapy or may be surgery as well. At Stage 3, the tumor may be difficult and gets cumbersome to remove. When the tumor has spread outside the lung to lymph nodes or it has spread into structures near the lung, the surgeon may recommend chemotherapy with radiation treatments before surgery.
Surgery is usually followed up with adjuvant chemotherapy. In cases, where the cancer is considered inoperable due to its location or its spread, chemotherapy is combined with radiation therapy or other treatment for lung cancer. The treatment options for stage 3 lung cancer include:
Surgery
The aim is to remove the tumor and works best for solid tumors that are connected in one area. It is also used in removing some of the tumors and helps other treatments to work better.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy works by attacking all fast growing cells including cancer cells. It is generally given in cycles of one to three days. Usually, it is given as an infusion into the bloodstream but can also be given as a pill. The common side effects of chemotherapy include loss of hair, tiredness, nausea, mouth sores and vomiting.
Radiation Therapy
In radiation therapy, a machine is used that aims radiation at cancer. It feels similar to getting an x-ray and is a painless process. As the radiation is to the chest, it can cause serious side effects such as skin changes, problems in breathing, shortness of breath etc.
The doctors recommend the best treatment for lung cancer depending upon a number of factors. The treatments may include complementary therapies in addition to the conventional methods of treatments to lessen the symptoms. Healthy food and good exercise schedule helps one to recover faster.
A lot more is required to be done in the field of lung cancer treatment to improve cancer survival rates.
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The information shared in this blog is for educational purposes only. If you face any unusual symptom, contact your healthcare professional.