Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer - Radiation Treatments

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Severe inflammation in the esophagus is the most common severe side effect of the radiation and chemotherapy combination. There is also a very high risk of serious infections, including pneumonia, herpes zoster, and cytomegalovirus. Long-term antibiotic therapy may be needed.

Although patients over 70 may suffer more from toxic effects than younger patients, studies now suggest that they can achieve survival rates with combined treatments that are equal to those in younger patients.

Agents Used for Pain Relief

There are many painkilling medications available. Research shows that aggressive pain relief can help patients better manage cancer treatment symptoms. For example, reducing pain in elderly cancer patients may markedly lower their fatigue levels, and improve other symptoms as well.

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Opioids are the most potent painkillers. The correct use of these strong medications is very important for reaching acceptable pain relief and preventing a toxic response. For example, the long-lasting version of oxycodone (OxyContin) must be swallowed whole. Chewing, inhaling, or injecting it can create a deadly overdose.

Review Date: 07/01/2010
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).