How hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help lung cancer patients
Learn the benefits HBOT has to offer for those affected by lung cancer
Lung cancer is the third most common cancer in the U.S.[1] Not only is it at the top of the most common forms of cancer, but it is also the highest cause of cancer deaths in the world.
Continue reading to learn more about this type of respiratory cancer and how hyperbaric oxygen therapy is used as a treatment option.
What is lung cancer?
Lung cancer occurs when the cells within your lungs become divided, damaged, and start to grow out of control.
There are two types of lung cancers:
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer. It accounts for over 80% of lung cancer cases.
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) grows more quickly and is harder to treat than NSCLC. It shows up as a relatively small lung tumor that’s already spread to other parts of your body.
What are the symptoms of lung cancer?
In its earliest stages, signs and symptoms of lung cancer aren’t very apparent. In fact, some of the minimal symptoms wouldn’t lead one to suggest that it’s even cancer. Unfortunately, when symptoms do occur, this is a sign that the cancer has advanced.
Signs and symptoms of lung cancer may include:
- A new cough that doesn’t go away
- Coughing up blood, even a small amount
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Hoarseness
- Losing weight without trying
- Bone pain
- Headache [2]
- Shoulder pain.
- Swelling in the face, neck, arms, or upper chest (superior vena cava syndrome).
- Small pupil and drooping eyelid in one eye with little or no sweating on that side of your face (Horner’s syndrome) [1]
What causes lung cancer?
Today, most people know that smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. Experts estimate that 80% of lung cancer deaths are smoking-related. It’s crucial that you visit your doctor if you’re a smoker, used to smoke, or experienced second-hand smoke. [1]
Surprisingly, while smoking is the leading risk factor for lung cancer, up to 20% of people diagnosed have never smoked. [1]
Lung cancer can still emerge due to the following:
- Harmful substances, like air pollution, radon, asbestos, uranium, diesel exhaust, silica, coal products, and others.
- Having previous radiation treatments to your chest (for instance, for breast cancer or lymphoma).
- Having a family history of lung cancer. [1]
What are the treatment options for lung cancer?
Lung cancer treatments include surgery, radiofrequency ablation, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted drug therapy, and immunotherapy. [1]
Related resource:
The benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for cancer treatment relief
How can hyperbaric oxygen therapy help lung cancer patients?
Due to its countless healing benefits, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is supported by a growing body of research studies and patient testimonials. It is an effective form of cancer treatment relief for those facing issues such as anemia, pain, radiation injuries, and slow surgical wound healing.
It’s important to note that hyperbaric oxygen therapy is used in conjunction with lung cancer treatments like chemo and radiation therapies to mitigate their harsh side effects. HBOT allows more oxygen to reach areas damaged by radiation and helps prevent tissues from dying from lack of blood. The extra oxygen in your body aids new blood vessel formation and improves natural infection control.
Through exposure to an atmosphere of 100% oxygen, HBOT can help lung cancer patients with these benefits:
- Reducing pain, decreasing swelling, and accelerating wound healing after surgery.
- Increase oxygen to damaged areas and prevent tissues from dying from lack of blood after radiation therapy.
- And so much more.
Learn more:
Visit the ‘Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and Cancer’ section of our Research Library.
Ready to experience the healing power of oxygen?
At our medical centers in Orlando and New Smyrna Beach, Florida, our team at Hyperbaric Healing Treatment Center has been honored to support many cancer patients and survivors on their healing journey.
Our caring, knowledgeable team of hyperbaric specialists work together to determine the best treatment regimen for each of our patient’s unique set of circumstances.
We welcome you to contact us today.
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