Living with Lung Cancer

Adverse effects. Most side effects go away after the end of the treatment. These effects can be treated with medication as they appear.

Stop smoking. It is very important to give up smoking if you are a smoker. Smoking aggravates treatment side effects, such as loss of appetite and decreased lung capacity. There are currently pharmacological and support therapies to help stop smoking.

Alcohol. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol.

Diet. There is no scientific evidence that advises against the intake of proteins or sugars if you have cancer. There are no prohibited foods, except on rare occasions due to drug interactions. You should eat what you want in small amounts 4-5 times a day. The important thing is to maintain body protein mass and weight.

Other therapies. These may not be contraindicated. However, you should always consult your doctor beforehand.

Physical activity. Unless the doctor says otherwise, you should try to maintain your usual routine and do physical exercise, if possible. This minimises the side effects of treatment and helps you recover sooner. Engaging in regular physical activity tends to give you a greater sense of well-being. Ask your doctor what level of activity is the most appropriate. Physical therapy exercises are very important after surgery and when there is loss of muscle mass in the legs.

Sexual relations. You can have sexual relations if your general condition allows. It must be remembered that women of a childbearing age must take protective measures to prevent pregnancy during treatment.

Emotional support. There are different patient and family support groups offering advice and support from people who have gone through a similar situation. Ask staff at your health centre about such organisations.