Respiratory System Side Effects

21.03.2024

RESPIRATORY SYSTEM SIDE EFFECTS IN CANCER TREATMENT

Cancer treatment, especially some chemotherapeutic agents and radiotherapy, can cause various side effects by affecting the respiratory system. The most common of these side effects include shortness of breath, cough, lung fibrosis and pneumonitis (lung inflammation). Some medications, especially those used in the treatment of lung cancer, breast cancer and lymphoma, can damage lung tissue, which can lead to breathing difficulties. If radiotherapy is applied to the chest area, it can cause inflammation and scarring (fibrosis) in the lung tissue, which can limit respiratory functions. Additionally, some patients may develop acute or chronic pneumonitis, which makes oxygen intake difficult and negatively affects their general health. Such respiratory side effects can significantly affect patients' quality of life, and therefore it is important to regularly monitor respiratory functions and apply the necessary treatment methods. Respiratory therapy, medication, and oxygen therapy when necessary during and after treatment may be effective in managing these side effects.

Image 1: During the cancer treatment process, many complaints such as cough, shortness of breath and phlegm may occur depending on the disease, treatments and infections.

Drugs that cause respiratory system side effects in cancer treatment include:

Bleomycin: It can cause breathing problems such as lung fibrosis and pneumonitis.

Busulfan and Carmustine: May increase the risk of interstitial lung disease.

Methotrexate: Rarely, it may cause lung inflammation.

Radiotherapy (especially when applied to the chest area): It can cause radiation pneumonitis and other respiratory complications.

Targeted Therapies / Immunotherapies: Some medications, especially EGFR inhibitors and immunotherapy agents, may increase the risk of interstitial lung disease.

Respiratory system functions must be carefully monitored during the use of these drugs. Cancer treatment, especially some chemotherapy drugs, radiotherapy and some targeted therapies, can cause various side effects by affecting the respiratory system. These side effects may vary depending on the type of cancer being treated and the characteristics of the drugs and treatment methods used. Respiratory system side effects in cancer treatment and treatment methods for these side effects are discussed below:

RESPIRATORY SYSTEM SIDE EFFECTS

Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Chemotherapy or radiotherapy can damage lung tissue, which can lead to shortness of breath. Lung cancer or radiotherapy to the chest may affect lung capacity.

Cough: Chronic cough may be a sign of lung irritation or infection. Treatment-related lung damage may cause cough.

Lung Fibrosis: Scar tissue formation from radiotherapy can reduce the elasticity and function of the lungs. It can cause chronic respiratory problems.

Radiation Pneumonitis: Inflammation of the lung tissue may occur as a result of radiotherapy. It may cause breathing difficulties in the short or long term.

Lung Infections: Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, which can increase the risk of infection. Lung infections such as pneumonia may occur.

Image 2: Respiratory symptoms should be evaluated seriously during the cancer treatment process. Patients may need intensive care.

TREATMENT AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES

Medication: Bronchodilators, corticosteroids and mucolytics can be used for shortness of breath and cough. Antibiotic treatment is necessary for lung infections.

Oxygen Therapy: Oxygen therapy can be applied to patients experiencing severe shortness of breath. It supports respiratory function by increasing oxygen saturation.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Treatments to increase lung capacity with respiratory therapy and special exercise programs. Breathing techniques and strengthening exercises.

Lifestyle Changes: Quitting smoking and avoiding second-hand smoke are critical for lung health. A healthy diet and light exercise can improve overall health.

Regular Monitoring and Tracking: Respiratory function tests and regular medical follow-up. X-rays or CT scans may be needed to evaluate the effects of treatment on breathing.

Psychological and Social Support: Shortness of breath and other breathing problems can increase anxiety and stress, so psychological support is important. Support groups and social support networks can help patients cope with these difficulties.

Side effects of cancer treatment on the respiratory system can significantly affect patients' quality of life and overall response to treatment. Therefore, early diagnosis and effective management of these side effects are an important part of the cancer treatment process. Patients and healthcare professionals need to be proactive against these side effects and implement appropriate treatment strategies.