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Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Non-small cell lung cancer
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer. The following are subtypes of NSCLC:
- Squamous cell carcinoma is found in cells that line the airways of the lungs. It is usually found in the middle of the lung.
- Adenocarcinoma is found in cells that produce mucus. It is usually found in the outer parts of the lung.
- Large cell carcinoma can be found in any part of the lung.
- Other subtypes such as adenosquamos carcinoma and sarcomatoid carcinoma, are less common.
Common signs and symptoms include the following:
- A cough or hoarseness that does not go away or gets worse
- Chest pain that is worse when you take a deep breath, cough, or laugh
- Weight loss and loss of appetite
- Coughing up blood or rust-colored mucus
- Shortness of breath or new or worsened wheezing
- Feeling tired or weak
- Lung infections that do not go away or keep coming back
Call 911 for any of the following:
- You suddenly have more trouble breathing than usual.
Seek care immediately if:
- You cannot think clearly.
- Your lips or nails look blue or pale.
- You have a headache or dizziness.
- You have more swelling in your face, arms, neck , or chest.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You have a fever.
- You have severe pain.
- Your symptoms such as wheezing, or cough, get worse.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Treatment for NSCLC
depends on the type and what stage it is. Chemotherapy and radiation may be given together or alone to kill cancer cells. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy medicines may also be given to help the body kill cancer cells. Surgery may be done alone or with other treatments to remove the cancer, part of the lung, or the entire lung.
- Quit smoking. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can cause lung damage. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.
Phone: 1- 800 - 784-8669
Web Address: www.smokefree.gov
- Limit or do not drink alcohol. Alcohol can make breathing problems worse. Ask your healthcare provider if alcohol is safe for you to drink.
- Use pursed-lip breathing any time you feel short of breath. Take a deep breath in through your nose. Slowly breathe out through your mouth with your lips pursed for twice as long as you inhaled. You can also practice this breathing pattern while you bend, lift, climb stairs, or exercise. It slows down your breathing and helps move more air in and out of your lungs.
- Eat small frequent meals. Your shortness of breath may make it difficult to eat a lot of food at one time. Eat a variety of healthy foods. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. Ask if you need to be on a special diet.
- Balance exercise with rest. Ask about the best exercise plan for you. Exercise may improve your energy levels and appetite. It can also help you heal faster after treatment or surgery. Rest when you feel tired. Ask your healthcare provider about exercise during treatment.
Use oxygen as directed:
You may need extra oxygen if your blood oxygen level is lower than it should be. You may get oxygen through a mask placed over your nose and mouth or through small tubes placed in your nostrils. Ask your healthcare provider before you take off the mask or oxygen tubing. Do not smoke and stay away from others that smoke when you use oxygen.
Follow up with your oncologist as directed:
You may need to return for pulmonary function tests (PFTs) to see how well your lungs are working. You will need to see your oncologist frequently for ongoing treatments. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.