How to Best Treat Fluid Accumulation in Advanced Lung Cancer?

Treatment of Pleural Effusion in Advanced Lung Cancer

When pleural effusion occurs in advanced lung cancer, it can be managed through methods such as thoracentesis and pleurodesis. If the pleural effusion volume is significant, radiotherapy and chemotherapy can also be employed to alleviate symptoms.

General Treatment

1. Thoracentesis: For patients with a large amount of pleural effusion, thoracentesis can be performed to drain the fluid, thereby alleviating symptoms such as dyspnea. However, after fluid drainage, a sclerosing agent needs to be injected into the pleural cavity to prevent recurrence of pleural effusion.

2. Pleurodesis: For patients with a small amount of pleural effusion, pleurodesis can be an option. This involves injecting absolute alcohol into the pleural cavity to disrupt the capillary network, allowing the lung and chest wall to adhere closely, thereby achieving hemostasis.

Pharmacological Treatment

If patients exhibit symptoms such as pronounced coughing and expectoration, they can be prescribed medications like Ambroxol Hydrochloride Oral Solution and Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Granules under medical supervision. These medications can help dissolve mucus and provide a calming effect. Additionally, antibiotics such as Amoxicillin Capsules and Cefixime Capsules can be prescribed to control infections.

Surgical Treatment

As lung cancer is a malignant disease, cancer cells may spread when the condition reaches an advanced stage. In such cases, the aforementioned methods alone may not be effective, and surgical resection of the tumor is necessary. Post-surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are often administered as adjuvant therapies to inhibit cancer cell proliferation.

Furthermore, patients are advised to maintain a healthy diet rich in high-quality protein, limit spicy and greasy foods, and maintain regular sleep patterns to ensure adequate rest. Avoid prolonged periods of staying up late. If discomfort or symptom aggravation occurs, seek medical attention promptly to prevent disease progression.