Small-Cell Lung Cancer (cont.)
Medical Author:
Michael Perry, MD, FACP
Coauthor:
Shehnaz Shaikh, MD
Medical Editor:
Winston W Tan, MD
Medical Editor:
Mary L Windle, PharmD
Medical Editor:
Shreekanth V Karwande, MBBS
IN THIS ARTICLE
Follow-up
Palliative and terminal care Because small-cell lung cancer is diagnosed in many people when it is not curable, palliative care becomes important. The goal of palliative and terminal care is to enhance the person’s quality of life. The patient may be given radiation therapy as palliative treatment to relieve symptoms caused by compression of the food pipe, windpipe, or superior vena cava. Palliative care offers the patient emotional and physical comfort and relief from pain. Palliative care not only focuses on comfort but also addresses the concerns of the patient’s family and loved ones. The patient’s caregivers may include family and friends in addition to doctors and other health care professionals. Palliative and terminal care is often given in a hospital, hospice, or nursing home; however, it can also be provided at home. The following organizations can help with palliative and terminal care:nicotine gum, medicated nicotine sprays or inhalers, nicotine patches, and an oral medication (bupropion). In addition, group therapy and behavioral training further increase the chances of quitting. For information about how to quit smoking, visit the following links:
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Lung Cancer, Oat Cell (Small Cell) »
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is considered distinct from other lung cancers, called non–small-cell lung cancers (NSCLCs), because of their clinical and biologic characteristics.
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