Breathe Easier: Lifestyle Tips for Lung Cancer Patients

Living with lung cancer brings unique challenges, but small lifestyle changes can make a big difference in improving both the physical and emotional well-being of patients. 

Whether during treatment or in the recovery process, taking steps to care for their body, mind, and environment can help lung cancer patients breathe easier, both literally and figuratively. 

Let’s explore five lifestyle tips that can support lung cancer patients in taking control of their health and improving their quality of life. 

Tip 1: Exercise Regularly 

Engaging in light, regular exercises during and after cancer treatment can help strengthen the immune system, improve sleep and appetite, and help ease certain symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath. 

While exercising may seem daunting for a lung cancer patient, gentle activities like walking, light stretching, or yoga can help boost overall stamina, improve the patient’s mental state, and reduce the risk of developing other health problems like osteoporosis and cardiovascular issues. 

For many lung cancer patients, shortness of breath is a common issue, often caused by tumour growth or as a side effect of treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. This can be both physically challenging and emotionally distressing, making everyday tasks more difficult to manage.

In such cases, breathing exercises can help by promoting increased oxygen intake and gradually strengthening the patient’s lung capacity:

• Pursed lip breathing method: Inhale slowly through the nose, then exhale gently through pursed lips for twice as long as the inhalation. This technique helps keep the airways open, making breathing easier and more controlled.

• Deep or diaphragmatic breathing method: Breathe deeply through the nose, focusing on the rise and fall of the belly as the lungs fill with air. Slowly exhale through pursed lips. This method helps to strengthen the diaphragm and increase lung capacity. 

Be sure to consult a doctor about safe and appropriate types of physical exercise, as these can differ based on the patient’s condition and type of treatment. 

Tip 2: Eat Well 

Getting proper nutrition is vital for lung cancer patients at all stages, whether they are undergoing active treatment or in recovery. A well-balanced diet can support the immune system, boost lung function, and even improve the effectiveness of lung cancer treatments.

However, many cancer patients may experience nausea, poor appetite, taste changes, and difficulty swallowing, which can make it hard for them to get the necessary calories and nutrients. To maintain strength and prevent malnutrition, it’s important to eat smaller meals throughout the day:

• Eat 5-6 small meals a day to avoid overwhelming the stomach and reduce nausea.
• Try to eat something at each scheduled mealtime, even when not hungry.
• Choose bland foods like plain crackers, toast, boiled potatoes, or plain rice to make digestion easier.
• Consider liquid-based meals such as soups or smoothies if solid foods are hard to tolerate.

In addition to small, frequent meals, ensure that the diet includes plenty of protein-rich foods to maintain energy levels, like fish, chicken, nuts, eggs, and beans. Meanwhile, foods rich in antioxidants such as blueberries, tomatoes, lentils, and dark leafy greens can help boost lung health. 

Staying well-hydrated is also important for lung cancer patients. Dehydration can cause dizziness and weakness, and worsen symptoms like nausea and dry mouth. If plain water is unappealing, try fruit juices, coconut water, herbal teas, and flavoured seltzer water to stay hydrated.

Tip 3: Avoid Lung Irritants 

Exposure to irritants like strong chemicals, air pollutants, and secondhand smoke is harmful to everyone, but can be especially dangerous for lung cancer patients. 

Patients who are exposed to secondhand smoke after their diagnosis are more likely to have negative outcomes in the treatment and progression of their lung cancer. Other irritants like mould or household chemicals can inflame the airway, making breathing more difficult and exacerbating symptoms like cough and shortness of breath.

To improve air quality and reduce exposure to irritants, consider the following:

• Use air purifiers in the home to filter out dust, allergens, and other particles that can irritate the lungs.
• Improve ventilation by opening windows or using fans to ensure fresh air circulates throughout the living space.
• Use a humidifier to keep the air moist, which can help prevent dryness and irritation in the lungs. 
• Clean the living environment regularly to minimise dust, mould, and allergens that could trigger respiratory issues.

Tip 4: Prioritise Mental Health

Lung cancer is an illness that has profound effects on both physical and mental health. 

Many patients may struggle with feelings of sadness, fear, anxiety, and confusion as they navigate their diagnosis and treatment. Balancing work, family, and daily responsibilities during their illness can also feel overwhelming and isolating. 

According to research, these negative emotions can have such deep effects that they may compromise a patient’s immune system and the effectiveness of cancer treatment. 

It’s essential to address not only the physical aspects of treatment and recovery, but the patient’s emotional well-being too. Practicing mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises can significantly help reduce stress and manage anxiety. Examples include:

• Body scan meditation
• Sitting meditation
• Massages
• Tai chi or yoga
• Listening to music
• Journaling

Establishing a support system is also vital for lung cancer patients during their treatment and recovery journey. Emotional and social support play a critical role in healing and recovery.

Research indicates that social support can not only improve a patient’s chances of surviving cancer but also lower the risk of recurrence.  

Therapy or personal counselling can be a valuable source of social support for lung cancer patients. Talking to a professional counsellor can help patients understand and navigate their complex emotions, fears, and challenges. 

Additionally, in-person or online support groups offer patients the opportunity to connect, share experiences, and draw strength from others facing similar situations.

Last but not least is the support of family and friends. Patients should try to lean on loved ones for help, whether for a listening ear, emotional support at medical appointments and treatment sessions, or assistance with daily tasks at home.

Tip 5: Safeguard Against Infection

Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, making lung cancer patients more susceptible to respiratory infections. In fact, 50-70% of people with lung cancer develop infections like pneumonia during the course of their illness. 

To help reduce the risk of respiratory infections, it’s crucial for lung cancer patients to take extra precautions:

• Regularly wash hands with soap and water, especially before eating. 
• Wear a mask in public places to prevent the risk of airborne infections.
• Avoid large crowds, particularly in indoor settings where germs can spread easily. 

In addition to safeguarding against respiratory infections, lung cancer patients should be sure to immediately disinfect any cuts or wounds they sustain. Even small breaks in the skin can become entry points for bacteria. Keep wounds clean and covered, monitor for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pus, and seek medical attention promptly if any infection is suspected.

Encouraging family members and visitors to practice good hygiene is equally important. Remind them to wash their hands before coming into contact with the patient, and to wear masks if necessary. This can help create a safer, more supportive environment for the patient during treatment. 

Living Well With Lung Cancer: A Holistic Approach

From nurturing the body with proper food and exercise to creating a supportive environment that promotes emotional health, each step a lung cancer patient takes toward better self-care is an investment in their quality of life.

At International Cancer Specialists (ICS), we believe that cancer care goes beyond just treating the disease—it’s about caring for the whole person. 

We are dedicated to providing lung cancer patients with compassionate and accessible care in an environment that always puts their humanity first. No matter where they come from, every individual who walks through our doors can expect to find a safe and comfortable space where both their physical and mental well-being are our top priorities.

Aside from screening tests and medical oncology expertise, ICS also offers personalised nutrition and counselling services to help patients and their families focus on physical and mental health as they navigate their journey with cancer.

Take the first step toward comprehensive, compassionate care today. Reach out to ICS and let us walk with you on your path to healing and wellness.