Going through treatment for lung cancer isn’t just about fighting the disease—it’s also about managing how your body and mind react to that fight. The side effects of treatment can often be just as challenging as the cancer itself. So how can you cope, recover, and still maintain quality of life? Let’s walk through it together.
Understanding Why Side Effects Happen
Have you ever wondered why cancer treatment—something meant to help—can sometimes make you feel worse before you feel better? It’s frustrating. But here’s the truth: most cancer treatments, whether it’s chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy, aren’t only targeting cancer cells. They often affect healthy cells too. This is especially true for fast-growing cells like those in your mouth, hair, or digestive tract.
Imagine your body as a battlefield. The treatments are the soldiers. They’re well-trained, but sometimes, even friendly fire causes damage. That’s what side effects really are: collateral damage from an aggressive plan to save your life.
Common Side Effects from Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is one of the most common treatments for lung cancer, but its impact can be widespread. Here’s what many people experience:
- Fatigue that seems to never end, even after a good night’s sleep
- Nausea and vomiting, sometimes triggered by smells or even just the thought of food
- Hair loss, not just on your head, but sometimes eyebrows and eyelashes too
- Weakened immunity, making it easier to catch infections
How do you deal with all that? Start with rest—but the right kind. Not lying-in-bed-all-day kind, but pacing your energy. Use anti-nausea medication religiously, not just when symptoms hit. Keep hand sanitiser close. And lean on your care team—you’re not in this alone.
Managing Radiation Side Effects
Radiation therapy is targeted, but that doesn’t mean it’s side-effect free. If you’re getting radiation to your chest area, you might experience:
- Skin irritation or a sunburn-like rash where the beam enters the body
- Difficulty swallowing or a sore throat
- Shortness of breath or tightness in the chest
A soft cotton shirt can feel like heaven when your skin is irritated. And drinking cool smoothies instead of acidic juices? Game changer. Tell your doctor if your breathing feels different—don’t wait. Sometimes radiation can cause inflammation in the lungs (radiation pneumonitis), and it needs attention.
Coping with Targeted Therapy Side Effects
Targeted therapies may sound ideal—they’re designed to attack only specific cancer cells. But they still come with baggage:
- Skin rash, especially acne-like bumps
- Diarrhoea, often persistent
- Liver changes, detected through blood tests, not symptoms
Think of these side effects like a stubborn roommate—you’ll need boundaries. Moisturise daily. Ask your doctor about creams for rashes. Stay hydrated and consider anti-diarrhoeal medication. And never skip follow-up bloodwork. Your liver might be talking to you silently.
Immunotherapy: Side Effects You Shouldn’t Ignore
Immunotherapy boosts your immune system to fight cancer, but sometimes that boost becomes overdrive. Your immune system might attack your own organs.
Common signs include:
- Rashes or itching
- Fatigue, more intense than expected
- Cough or shortness of breath
- Diarrhoea or stomach cramps
It may seem minor at first—a rash, a bit of breathlessness. But these can be signs of inflammation in your organs, like lungs (pneumonitis) or bowels (colitis). Don’t downplay them. Call your doctor. Catching these early can prevent serious harm.
Dealing with Fatigue That Won’t Go Away
This isn’t just being tired. This is bone-deep exhaustion that sleep can’t fix. Sound familiar?
What can help:
- Energy pacing: Spread out your tasks. Showering and cooking in one day? That’s a win.
- Gentle movement: Short walks or stretching may actually boost energy.
- Asking for help: Don’t wait to be overwhelmed before delegating.
Think of your energy as money in a bank. Spend it wisely. Don’t go into fatigue debt.
Nausea and Appetite Loss: Getting Nutrition Anyway
It’s hard to fight cancer if your body doesn’t have fuel. But what if everything tastes like metal? Or worse—nothing at all?
Tips to cope:
- Eat small, frequent meals. Don’t wait to feel hungry.
- Try cold foods if smells bother you.
- Use ginger, peppermint, or lemon to ease nausea.
- Focus on calorie-rich snacks like nut butter, smoothies, or eggs.
Even a few spoonfuls count. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s nourishment.
Mental and Emotional Side Effects
Let’s not sugar-coat it: cancer is mentally brutal. Anxiety, sadness, fear—it’s all normal. But suffering in silence? That shouldn’t be.
What helps:
- Talk therapy: A good therapist can be a lifeline.
- Support groups: Whether online or in person, they remind you—you’re not alone.
- Mindfulness practices: Breathing exercises, journaling, or even prayer
Healing isn’t just physical. It’s emotional too. And you’re allowed to prioritise that.
Skin, Hair, and Nail Changes
Suddenly your skin feels dry like paper, your nails are brittle, and your hair might fall out or grow back differently.
How to care:
- Use fragrance-free moisturisers daily
- Wear sunscreen—your skin is more sensitive now
- Clip nails short to avoid tearing
- Consider a soft cap or scarf for confidence (and warmth)
This may feel superficial—but how you see yourself matters. Take steps to feel good in your skin.
Mouth Sores, Dry Mouth, and Taste Changes
Ever feel like your mouth is on fire, or food tastes like cardboard? That’s a common side effect.
To manage it:
- Rinse with salt and baking soda (avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes)
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Try ice chips or sugar-free gum for dry mouth
- Experiment with umami flavours like mushrooms or soy sauce to add interest
Be kind to your mouth. It’s doing its best to adapt.
Tips for Caregivers: Supporting Someone with Side Effects
If you’re a caregiver, this journey is yours too. And it can be overwhelming.
Here’s how you can truly help:
- Listen more than you speak
- Help with daily tasks like meals or medications
- Watch for signs of depression, confusion, or new symptoms
- Take breaks for your own mental health
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself is taking care of your loved one.
When Side Effects Become Emergencies
Not all side effects are just inconveniences. Some can be dangerous.
Call your care team immediately if you notice:
- Sudden shortness of breath
- High fever or chills
- Uncontrolled diarrhoea or vomiting
- Confusion or severe fatigue
Have an emergency contact list ready. Keep notes. Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong—it probably is.
Final Thoughts
Side effects may be part of the journey, but they don’t have to define it. With the right support, strategies, and mindset, you can navigate treatment without losing yourself in the process. Keep asking questions. Keep advocating for your comfort. And most importantly—keep going.
References:
- “Managing Cancer Treatment Side Effects” – American Cancer Society, 2023. https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects.html
- “Side Effects of Chemotherapy” – Cancer Research UK, 2022. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancer-in-general/treatment/chemotherapy/side-effects
- “Radiation Therapy Side Effects” – Mayo Clinic, 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/radiation-therapy/about/pac-20385096
- “Targeted Therapy and Your Skin” – National Cancer Institute, 2023. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/types/targeted-therapies/side-effects
- “Understanding Immunotherapy Side Effects” – Cancer.Net, ASCO, 2024. https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/how-cancer-treated/immunotherapy/side-effects-immunotherapy
- “Nutrition During Treatment” – MD Anderson Cancer Center, 2023. https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/nutrition-during-cancer-treatment