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There are two major types of lung cancer: Non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer. The type is determined upon examination of the cells under a microscope. Each cancer is treated in a different manner as they each grow and spread in a different way. The more common of the two, non-small cell lung cancer, will grow and spread more quickly than the small cell lung cancer. Within non-small cell lung cancer there are three types: Squamous cell cancer, adenocarcinoma and large cell carcinoma.
Symptoms of lung cancer are bloody sputum, wheezing, recurrent bronchitis or pneumonia, hoarseness, shortness of breath, chest pain that is continuous, fatigue, face and neck swelling, weight loss, and/or loss of appetite. Because these are common symptoms in other health problems as well, a proper diagnosis is imperative.
Traditionally, the most common treatments for lung cancer are medications, surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy. These all come with very uncomfortable side effects. If one would rather seek other therapies, alternative or holistic therapies they are available, although not as common as the traditional approach. The use of alternative medical practice for the treatment of lung cancer is a matter of personal preference and beliefs.
The holistic approach for treatment of lung cancer is aimed at treating the whole body instead of just the invading tumor itself. It focuses on the root of the problem. The holistic treatment for lung cancer is geared toward attempts to boost the body’s immune system, thereby strengthening it to ultimately aid in destroying the cancer cells that are invading the lungs.
This type of treatment for lung cancer is a less destructive approach that is reasonably nontoxic and done through the use of supplements of minerals, vitamins and enzymes, oxygenation, immune stimulants, detoxifying the body, special diets, and the use of spiritual and psychological measures, such as meditation. Other means of alternative or holistic treatments of lung cancer are carried out with herbal treatments, acupuncture, macrobiotics, Ayurveda, prayer, imagery, massage, and exercise to name a few.
Seeking treatment for lung cancer requires a well thought out plan based on knowledge about the specific lung cancer that you might have and the treatments available for it. The traditional approach does offer a firmer, more definitive course of medical intervention. However, it carries risks that possibly may reduce your lifespan and your quality of life.
When deciding your choices, your options, in medical treatment for lung cancer it is best to seek the advice and guidance of your medical doctor who can best educate you further in the treatments that are available in traditional Western medicine, as well as the holistic forms of treatment for lung cancer.
RESOURCES
Natural Horizons Wellness Centers: Lung Cancers and Alternative Treatments
MayoClinic: Lung Cancer Alternative Medicine
Budwig Center: Lung Cancer Alternative Treatment
Lung Cancer Alliance: Complementary and Alternative Medicine