In its early stages, lung cancer can be treated through surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Depending on the extent to which the disease has metastasized, a surgeon may be able to remove the cancerous tissue by performing a wedge resection, lobectomy, or pneumonectomy. By the time lung cancer has reached stage 4, a combination of all three approaches is necessary and even then, may be unsuccessful.
If the diseased cells cannot be eliminated through treatment, they will eventually spread throughout the body to the point where recovery is all but impossible. Death becomes imminent. In this article, we’ll describe what patients can expect to experience during the final stage of lung cancer.
Changes In Body
In nearly 30% of terminal cases, the patient will experience malignant pleural effusion. This occurs when fluid begins to fill the space that surrounds the lungs. It will result in breathing difficulties, which can be reduced by draining the space of fluid.
Other common physical changes in the last stage of lung cancer include bleeding and pain throughout the bones. Bleeding can result when the diseased cells create an impediment in the patient’s airway. In the case of bone pain, cancerous cells can spread into the patient’s spine and chest. The pain can be controlled with medications.
In final-stage, the disease can spread into the brain. If this happens, the patient may experience seizures and severe headaches. Depending on the area of the brain that is affected, speech problems can also occur.
As the patient nears the end, he or she will lose a significant amount of weight. This typically happens even when the person’s caloric intake remains steady.
Changes In Mind
When a person who is suffering from terminal lung cancer enters the last few months of their life, they will often start to withdraw from their loved ones. This is partly due to physical and mental fatigue as the disease progresses. It may also be due to the person contemplating the end as it approaches. It is important to have a network of support during these last months.
Preparing For The End
During the last few days, the person’s body will undergo a “settling down” process as it prepares itself for death. The skin’s temperature will decline and even take on a bluish hue in spots. The patient’s breathing pattern will alternate between deep and shallow breaths. Eventually, the fluids that have accumulated in the throat will cause gurgling.
It is also possible that the person suffering from final-stage lung cancer will suddenly seem energetic. He or she may sit up in their bed and appear mentally alert. This is not a sign of recovery.
Watching a loved one go through the final days of terminal lung cancer can be heartbreaking. Once the disease has metastasized outside the lung tissue, it spreads quickly. If you are diagnosed with lung cancer, it is vital that you receive treatment as soon as possible. Ask your physician whether minimally invasive lung cancer surgery is an option.
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