Daily activity for lung cancer: Exercise and more

The article was written by Master, Doctor Mai Vien Phuong - Gastroenterologist - Department of Medical Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital.

When you have lung cancer, you may not want to exercise. However, you may be surprised to learn that some symptoms of lung cancer such as shortness of breath, fatigue... can be improved with exercise.

Lung cancer has 2 types, namely non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). In which, SCLC accounts for 80-85% of all lung cancer cases. 30% of these cases begin in the cells that make up the lining of the cavity as well as the surface of the body.
SCLC accounts for 15-20% of lung cancer cases. SCLC grows and spreads faster than NSCLC. This also makes it more likely to respond to chemotherapy. However, it is also less likely to be cured with treatment.
In some cases, lung cancer contains both NSCLC and SCLC cells. Mesothelioma is another type of lung cancer that is often associated with asbestos exposure.

Exercise is a good idea for anyone. When you are living with lung cancer, exercise can help:
Improve breathing Increase energy levels Reduce the risk of cancer recurrence Prevent or manage other health conditions, including high blood pressure and diabetes Managing stress and anxiety, however, talk to your doctor before you begin any exercise.

Try to incorporate different types of activities into your routine to get the most health benefits. There are four main exercises for cancer patients:
Breathing Stretching Aerobics Strength Training Each offers different benefits, such as improved flexibility and balance; promote heart and lung health; Build and maintain muscle to make you stronger.
Talk to your doctor if you have questions or concerns about increasing your exercise level.

Breathing exercises can help strengthen the muscles as you inhale and exhale. The diaphragm is the muscle underneath the lungs that helps control the depth and force of breathing. Strengthening your diaphragm can help you breathe more efficiently and easily.
Deep breathing can also be an effective way to manage stress and anxiety. Breathing exercises can increase endurance, assisting you in other forms of exercise.
Follow these steps for diaphragmatic breathing:
Find a comfortable position either sitting, standing or lying down. Place one hand on the upper chest, the other hand on the abdomen. Inhale slowly through your nose. When you feel your stomach full of air, exhale more slowly through your mouth with pursed lips, as if you were blowing out a candle. As you exhale, you should feel your belly flatten as the air leaves your body. Repeat these steps at least 3-4 times or until you notice yourself feeling more relaxed and in control of your breathing.

Stretching movements help you become more flexible. It is great for stability and balance, and allows you to become more active.
Stretching improves your range of motion, circulation and posture. Good posture, chest and back muscles can increase lung capacity, which is very beneficial for lung cancer patients.
Stretching is an important step after exercise, but it is also considered a type of exercise on its own. It is important to stretch all parts of the body and hold for 10 to 30 seconds.
People often hold their breath during a stretch, but it is important to breathe through each stretch. Test yourself while stretching to make sure you're breathing well.
Here are some examples of stretching activities you can try:
Yoga Gardening If you sit most of the day, schedule a break every hour to get up and stretch straight arms and legs.

Aerobic exercise gets your heart rate up. It is very good for heart health and increases lung capacity. Some aerobic exercises include:
Walking Swimming Dancing Cycling

If you're not active right now, it's a good idea to start at a low intensity. You can walk in the hallway in your house or apartment, march in place in the living room. Here are some aerobic activities you should do every day:
Mowing the lawn, raking leaves in the garden Walking with your pet Take a dance class online Use a pedometer to track your daily steps, then gradually work to increase the number of steps you take.

Strength training activities help build or maintain muscle. Having strong muscles will support better posture and endurance.
Strength training also plays a role in building bone mass. You should start with light weights if you're new to endurance training. Specifically:
Lifting light weights, water bottles or canned food. Use resistance bands for your arms and upper body. Raise your body on tiptoes, clinging to a chair or table for balance. Try yoga or Pilates.

A physical therapist can help you figure out the best course of action for your current health situation. This is helpful if you don't know how to start, have other health concerns, or are dealing with past trauma.
Make sure your physical therapist knows your medical history before you begin an exercise program.

Being active is beneficial for lung cancer. It can improve your mood and energy, helping to keep up with treatments.
There are many different forms of exercise and they are all beneficial. Activities in everyday life can also improve your overall health and quality of life. If you don't know where to start exercising, talk to your physical therapist to find a method that's right for you.