Knowing The Side Effects Of Lung Cancer Surgery

Overview

Following major lung cancer surgery, the majority of people experience pain or discomfort. If the cancer is treatable with medications, there is no need to undergo surgical treatment. Unfortunately, advanced lung cancer patients may not be good candidates for lung cancer surgery. However, there are a set of possible risks and complications that you might face even after successful lung cancer surgery. Keep reading to learn more about the side effects of lung cancer surgery.

What are the side effects that you might have after lung surgery?

Short-term complications after any type of surgery are expected. However, you may feel various long-term side effects too, even months after lung surgery. Let your doctor know about the complications you’re suffering from. He/she will take care of it.

• Constipation- After taking so many painkillers after surgery, you may develop the symptom of constipation. In most cases, this happens due to morphine intake.

Eat meals high in fibre to help with this condition, such as:

-Fruits

-Vegetables

-Whole-wheat bread and cereals

Every day, drink at least 8 cups of fluid. And, to keep your digestive system working, exercise for 15 to 30 minutes per day.

If these suggestions do not work, consult your doctor about over-the-counter medications.

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• Breathlessness- Breathlessness can be induced by either the malignancy or the treatment. Most people who have undergone surgery report feeling out of breath at times, especially when exercising. Following a pneumonectomy, a man discovered that physiotherapy helped him increase the lung capacity of his residual lung.

• Feeling tired and weak-Most people feel weak and tired for a while afterwards. The duration of this varies from person to person.

Inform your doctor or nurse if your weakness lasts longer than a few weeks. They can make suggestions, such as physiotherapy.

• Nausea and vomiting: This is one of the most common stomach problems after lung surgery. Your doctor may prescribe specific medications for the same. Also, you should take care of your diet during recovery after lung surgery.

• Risk of developing infections: infection of the incision site or of the lung itself is conceivable. If you experience any of the following symptoms, notify your doctor or nurse. They may indicate an infection:

-shivering

-Feeling hot and cool with a fever

-Swelling or redness in the area of your wound

• Anxiety and depression-People may feel fatigued and depressed following surgery.

• Nerve injury: Occasionally, during surgery, nerves are injured, which can affect the vocal cords, voice, and swallowing.

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The most common side effects following lung cancer surgery are pain, loss of appetite, and an increased risk of infection (about three out of every four patients). Another typical risk of any type of surgery is blood clot formation. As a result, after surgery, your doctor will advise you to gradually increase your strength and endurance and try to walk as much as possible.

Other long-term complications after surgery: While some people find that their breathing improves as they recuperate, others may experience long-term issues. Consult your doctor about possible solutions. You could get a referral to a clinic for people suffering from shortness of breath.

Some people experience discomfort that lasts for a long time following surgery. The discomfort is caused by the nerve injury sustained during the operation. The soreness is frequently felt along the surgical scar. Most people see a steady decrease in pain over a few years as their nerves rebuild themselves. However, for other people, it may last longer.

Nerve discomfort is notoriously tough to manage. If you are in pain, please notify your expert nurse or surgeon. They can refer you to a pain clinic for specialized assistance.

Pain relievers that are often used do not always help with nerve pain. However, your doctor may prescribe other medications. Some antiepileptic and antidepressant medications are highly effective at regulating this.

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How can you manage these side effects of Lung Surgery?

You can consult with your surgeon if you’re experiencing any of the above-mentioned discomforts. Notice any pain or swelling at the surgical site of your body. Keep track of any discomfort you’re suffering from. You can note down your symptoms so that you won’t miss any. This will help your doctor to diagnose the problem and treat it accordingly.

How can we help with the treatment?

If you are in search of lung cancer treatment in India, we will serve as your guide throughout your medical treatment and will be physically present with you even before your treatment begins. The following will be provided to you:

• Opinions of expert physicians and surgeons
• Transparent communication
• Coordinated care
• Prior appointment with specialists
• Assistance with hospital formalities
• 24*7 availability
• Arrangements for travel
• Assistance for accommodation and healthy recovery
• Assistance in emergencies

We are dedicated to offering the highest quality health trip and care to our patients. We have a team of highly qualified and devoted health professionals that will be by your side from the beginning of your journey.