Frequently asked questions about the final stages of lung cancer

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Post by Master, Doctor Mai Vien Phuong - Department of Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital
End stage (stage 4) lung cancer means the cancer has spread from the lungs to other parts of the body. Once the cancer has spread, it is very difficult to cure. Chemotherapy and other treatments can slow the disease and help people live longer, but do not cure the disease. Below are some frequently asked questions about the final stages of lung cancer.

1. What is late stage (stage 4) lung cancer?

People may live months or years after being diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. Or, it may only be a few weeks. The doctor will tell what to expect based on the patient's test results.
At some point, the doctor may let the patient know that the lung cancer has reached the end stage. Treatment will no longer help at this point.
The goal at this stage is to relieve pain and other symptoms to make the person more comfortable.
The patient will also need emotional support. Knowing that you have stage 4 lung cancer can be difficult, but your health care team and other medical professionals can help you and your family members get through it together.
Whether it's a patient or a loved one facing the end-stage of lung cancer, knowing what to expect can help navigate the process and get the support you need.

2. What are the symptoms of late stage lung cancer?

Everyone's end-of-life experience is unique. This process can be very slow and gradual, or rapid.
These symptoms are common in people with advanced stages of lung cancer:
Shortness of breath Pain Pain Cough Difficulty concentrating Confusion Extreme weakness and fatigue Little interest in eating Restlessness throat and upper chest during breathing Rapid breathing or pauses between breaths Having one or more of these symptoms does not mean that the person is near death, but they can be signs. A doctor or healthcare worker can provide patients with treatments to reduce these symptoms and make them more comfortable.
Not all symptoms in the late stages of lung cancer are physical. It is also normal to feel anxious or depressed during this stage.
Ask for support from a therapist or other mental health provider. If you are spiritual, you may also need guidance from a member of your religious organization.

3. What causes lung cancer patients to die from?

Cancer occurs when cells multiply much faster than normal. Those extra cells form tumors and can spread to other parts of the body, possibly damaging organs or preventing them from working.
Cancer can damage the lungs to the point where they can't get enough oxygen to meet the body's needs. Or a large tumor can block the lungs and make it difficult to breathe.
Sometimes bacteria that cause infections like pneumonia develop when there is a blockage in your lungs. Your body may be too weak from the cancer to fight the infection.
A tumor can also block a blood vessel. This blockage can slow or stop the flow of blood to the lungs and other parts of the body.
Lung cancer also spreads to vital organs such as the liver. Damage to the liver can prevent the liver from doing its job of removing toxins from the blood, helping your body store energy, and produce cholesterol and protein.
Cancer metastasis to the brain also threatens the patient's life. The brain controls all vital functions, including breathing.

4. How long should people with stage 4 lung cancer live?

According to the American Cancer Society, people with stage 4 lung cancer are about 6% more likely to live for 5 years than people without this cancer.
However, lung cancer has a different course in each person. People can live for weeks, months, or sometimes even years after being diagnosed. How long a person can live depends on factors such as age, overall health, and where the cancer is in the body.

5. Without treatment, how long can lung cancer patients live?

Lung cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy can prolong the lives of people with stage 4 lung cancer. However, not everyone can be treated or want to be treated. .
It is difficult to predict how long you will live without treatment. Research shows that people with non-small cell lung cancer live an average of 7 months if they don't get treatment. However, some people live longer or shorter than 7 months.
Conclusion
Doctors can tell about a patient's prognosis with stage 4 lung cancer. Looking at symptoms and how far the cancer has spread will help predict how long a person will live.
When a patient is in the terminal stages of lung cancer and treatment is no longer effective, a patient may be eligible for end-of-life cancer care. Your doctor will focus on relieving your symptoms and helping you get through the rest of your cancer journey. Patients can receive care at their own home or in a hospice center.
Whether a patient or loved one is facing the end stages of lung cancer, it can be an extremely emotional time. Make sure the person has all the support they need from friends and family, the doctor, and other members of the healthcare team.
Palliative care unit, Internal Oncology Department, Center for Oncology - Radiation Therapy, Vinmec Times City International Hospital is one of the leading facilities in the treatment and palliative care for cancer patients. letters. With a team of doctors and nurses who are experts with extensive experience in the treatment and palliative care for cancer patients, it will help the life of terminal cancer patients become lighter and more meaningful.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.

References
Lung cancer prevention and early detection. (n.d.). cancer.org/cancer/lungcancer-non-smallcell/moreinformation/lungcancerpreventionandearlydetection/lung-cancer-prevention-and-early-detection-signs-and-symptoms Lung cancer. (2018). lung.org/lung-health-and-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/lung-cancer/ Malignant mesothelioma. (n.d.). cancer.org/cancer/malignant-mesothelioma.html Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). Lung cancer. mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lung-cancer/basics/alternative-medicine/con-20025531