How to Reduce the Pain Caused by Lung Cancer

In patients with lung cancer, abnormal cells invade the lungs and begin to reproduce rapidly and without restraint. Lung cancer can cause a variety of painful physical side effects and can have a devastating effect on a one's mental state. Thankfully, there are a number of ways to reduce both the physical and mental pain experienced by lung cancer patients.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Reduce the Physical Pain Caused by Lung Cancer

1. Be sure to take your prescribed medications faithfully and on time. This may head off the physical symptoms of cancer.

2. Talk to your doctor when your pain medications don't seem to be working. A simple dosage increase may be all that you need.

3. Know that pain medications won't work all of the time. For those times when it seems like they've stopped working, mind-body exercises may help until the painkillers kick in or you can see your doctor.

4. Consider acupuncture. This ancient Chinese healing technique has helped some lung cancer sufferers ease their physical pain.

5. Schedule frequent massages. A massage will increase circulation, which may boost your immune system and reduce your pain at the same time.

Reduce the Emotional Pain Caused by Lung Cancer

6. Express your feelings. You may be feeling frustrated, helpless and depressed over your condition, but keeping everything inside will only make things worse. Talking to your friends and family will start you on the path to emotional stability.

7. Allow your friends and family time to grieve over your condition. Cancer isn't just hard on patients, it can be difficult for loved ones as well. While it may be upsetting to see the ones you love in pain, you need to respect their right to have emotions.

8. Join a support group in your area. You may get a great deal of comfort from being surrounded by people who are experiencing the same emotions you are.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can't understand something related to your treatment or condition due to a physical or mental disability, the Consumer Bill of Rights and Responsibilities gives you the right to request further clarification and assistance in understanding.
• Learn about meditation, proper nutrition and other lifestyle options that might help ease your pain, both physical and emotional.
• While it's normal to go through a range of emotions when dealing with a cancer diagnosis, if you find that your feelings are getting in the way of day-to-day life, consult with your doctor. There are many prescription medications available that may help stabilize your moods.

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