Quality of Life After Lung Cancer Surgery

Perception

Having lung cancer surgery is a life-altering event, and there is no way to minimize the emotions a person can go through when undergoing a procedure like this. The aim of surgery, however, is to not only extend life but improve your overall quality of life. The benefits of treatment will almost invariably outweigh the risks.

Healthcare providers today are paying attention to more than just “life years” when monitoring how people respond to lung cancer surgery. They want to know how people feel, how readily they can return to normal life, and how they perceive their own quality of life.

Recovery is different for everyone. It depends not only on the type of surgery used but also on an individual’s general health and psychological well-being before and after surgery.

Perception

Lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide and a disease characterized by often intense emotional and physical stresses. Even before surgery is factored in, there are many things that can impact a person’s quality of life, both perceived and real, when diagnosed with lung cancer.

Studies have shown that a person’s general health at the time of their lung cancer diagnosis influences their perceived quality of life (QoL) and response to treatment.

Level of Functioning

While many people regard lung cancer surgery as a means to “cut out the cancer,” one of the primary aims of the surgery is to restore or improve the quality of life. And, despite what some may think, people can live normal, active lives even when part or all of a lung is removed.

Lung cancer surgery is an option for some people based on the type, stage, and location of a tumor. It may be used for the purpose of curing early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) or carcinoid cancer or to relieve symptoms of advanced lung cancer. For most people, the benefits of surgery, when indicated, outweigh the risks.

Disease Remission

As much as lung cancer surgery can influence a person’s quality of life, remission from the disease can often restore a person’s quality of life to that of the general population. This is especially true for people with complete remission, in which all signs of cancer have disappeared for five years or more.

How to Improve Your Quality of Life

Your quality of life is influenced by more than the type of surgery your healthcare provider chooses to perform. QoL is determined by multiple factors within your control, including a commitment to pulmonary rehabilitation, building a strong support network, and managing diet, stress, and fatigue.

Among some of the things you can do:

• Do not rush recovery. Once discharged from the hospital, you should aim to take at least two months off to recuperate. Those who have undergone pneumonectomy may require a longer recovery time.
• Focus on progression. Quality of life can be positively influenced by setting and meeting goals. A good place to start is pulmonary rehabilitation. Try not to plateau in your recovery efforts but rather increase the intensity and duration of workouts gradually under the care and advice of your healthcare provider or physical therapist.
• Walk. Part of pulmonary rehabilitation may be no less than 30 minutes of dedicated walking per day. Walking not only improves lung function and builds lean muscle mass but can also enhance mood by stimulating the release of “feel good” hormones called endorphins.
• Stop smoking. The treatment of lung cancer is complicated by smoking, which can significantly reduce quality of life and increase recovery time. If you find it hard to quit, ask your healthcare provider for a prescription smoking cessation aid, many of which are provided free of charge under the Affordable Care Act. Also, ask about smoking support groups.
• Address nutrition. Weight loss is a common concern after lung cancer surgery, which not only undermines your energy levels but feelings of self-esteem and well-being. Work with a dietitian to ensure your caloric and nutritional needs are met.
• Reduce stress. Stress is a major factor in the reduction in quality of life in people with lung cancer. Find ways to manage stress on a daily basis to help reduce anxiety and depression. This may involve stress reduction modalities such as meditation, gentle yoga, guided imagery, biofeedback, and progressive muscle relaxation (PMR).
• Seek support. Lung cancer is difficult enough without having to go it alone. Start by building a network of friends and family members you can trust. Seek online support groups, or ask your oncologist about in-person support groups in your area.

Conclusion

Lung cancer surgery is a life-changing event that can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. While the surgery itself can influence a person’s QoL, it is also influenced by multiple factors within a person’s control. By committing to pulmonary rehabilitation, building a strong support network, and managing diet, stress, and fatigue, individuals can improve their quality of life and achieve a better overall outcome.

FAQs

Q: What are the benefits of lung cancer surgery?
A: The benefits of lung cancer surgery include extending life, improving quality of life, and relieving symptoms of advanced lung cancer.

Q: How long does it take to recover from lung cancer surgery?
A: Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery and individual factors, but most people can return to normal activities within three to six months.

Q: Can I still live a normal life after lung cancer surgery?
A: Yes, people can live normal, active lives even when part or all of a lung is removed. It is important to commit to pulmonary rehabilitation and manage diet, stress, and fatigue to improve quality of life.

Q: What are some ways to improve my quality of life after lung cancer surgery?
A: Some ways to improve your quality of life include committing to pulmonary rehabilitation, building a strong support network, managing diet, stress, and fatigue, and seeking support from online or in-person support groups.