Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing are common symptoms and side effects of cancer and its treatment.
If you've ever experienced shortness of breath, you know how terrible it is to feel like you can't get enough air. Shortness of breath or dyspnea is a common symptom and side effect of cancer, especially advanced cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer and cancer that spreads from another organ to the lungs.
Difficulty breathing can appear gradually or very suddenly. Its intensity and frequency of seizures may also vary. For some people, shortness of breath may occur from exertion such as exercising, going up stairs, doing housework, or getting dressed. Others may feel shortness of breath at rest. Difficulty breathing can make you feel sharp and uncomfortable with your breathing. Not only may you feel shortness of breath, but your breathing may also be strained or uncomfortable, or you may feel chest tightness or suffocation.
What causes breathlessness?
Cancer patients may experience shortness of breath for a variety of reasons. For example, a tumor may block the airways, compress the lungs, or cause airway inflammation. Cancer treatments, especially for the lungs, can also damage them or cause side effects that lead to shortness of breath.
Depending on the underlying cause, the treatment of dyspnea and accompanying symptoms varies greatly. Treatment may involve medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids, drugs that promote erythropoiesis, or drugs to treat pain or anxiety. Treatment may also depend on the cause of the condition. For example:
Treatment of shortness of breath may also involve techniques and lifestyle changes that can help alleviate symptoms. For example, your doctor may recommend physical therapy to strengthen weak muscles, increase lung capacity, and help you with your daily activities.
Shortness of breath can be physically and emotionally disturbing, especially when you're battling cancer at the same time. Emotional anxiety that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis can lead to difficulty breathing. Shortness of breath can also make you feel anxious, which can lead to further breathing difficulties. Shortness of breath can not only be uncomfortable, it can also interfere with your daily activities, making it difficult for you to eat, sleep, or socialize with family and friends. It is important to find ways to manage dyspnea to improve your breathing and quality of life.
Recommendations for relieving shortness of breath
Use controlled breathing techniques. Focusing on your breathing patterns may help reduce shortness of breath. Inhale deeply through the nose to count to two and exhale to four, for slow, even breathing. When exhaling, close your lips as if you were slowly blowing out a candle.
Adjust your activity. Plan your day so that you spend your energy first on the activities that are most important to you and limit unnecessary activities. If you experience shortness of breath during an activity, stop and rest. Avoid going up and down stairs multiple times and take breaks between and during activities.
Try to relax. It's important to stay calm when you feel short of breath, as anxiety can make breathing problems worse. Behavioral health therapists may recommend strategies such as relaxation techniques, meditation, or massage. A professional counsellor/therapist can also provide emotional support and practical advice.
Find a comfortable position. A comfortable posture may help make breathing easier. When in bed, lift your head and lean against the pillow so you can sit up. Do not lie flat on your back. Instead, lie down with your knees bent, or put a pillow under your knees. When sitting in a chair, sit up straight and lean forward slightly, with your arms on the table.
Breathe clean, cool air. Good ventilation with low humidity may help relieve some of the symptoms of shortness of breath. Lower the indoor temperature, open the windows, remove smoke and pet dander. Blowing cold air over your face with a fan may also help. Avoid crowded rooms, warm temperatures and unpleasant odors.
Do light exercise. While you may not want to exercise, staying physically active may help if your doctor allows it. Try gentle, gentle exercises and light stretching. A physical therapist may help you develop a personalized exercise program.
Maintain proper nutrition. A balanced diet provides your body with the energy it needs to heal and function. Try eating six small meals a day instead of three big meals. Avoid foods that are difficult to chew. Also, make sure you drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Consider consulting with a dietitian who can help you develop a meal plan.
Track your symptoms. For some, shortness of breath has predictable patterns. For example, you may feel breathless while climbing stairs or doing physical exercise. If you notice a pattern, avoid or limit these activities whenever possible. Try to pay attention to situations that make you nervous or anxious so you can learn to relax before you run short of breath.
Follow the doctor's advice. Maintain close communication with your doctor. Let him or her know how your breathing problems affect you, including the impact on your daily life. Your doctor may prescribe medications to help reduce shortness of breath.
Visit a rehabilitation therapist. Rehabilitation programs can teach you a variety of techniques and therapies to help reduce shortness of breath.
Article Source: Cancer Has Me With the Global Cancer Community
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