Efforts to address dyspnea may involve identifying and treating its underlying causes. This can include interventions such as tumor-reducing or tumor-destroying treatments when appropriate.
- Treatment options for dyspnea may vary depending on the underlying condition causing it. Here are some potential interventions:
- Radiation therapy: This involves using high-energy x-rays or other forms of radiation to shrink or destroy tumors. There are two types: external radiation therapy, which uses a machine outside the body to target the cancer, and internal radiation therapy, which places radioactive substances directly into or near the cancer.
- Hormone therapy: This treatment removes or blocks hormones to prevent cancer cells from growing. It is used when cancer cells have receptors for certain hormones. Hormone therapy can involve drugs, surgery, or radiation therapy to reduce hormone production or block hormone action.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or prevent them from dividing. It can be administered orally, intravenously, or directly into specific areas of the body such as the spinal column or abdomen. Chemotherapy reaches cancer cells throughout the body (systemic chemotherapy) or targets specific areas.
- Laser therapy for tumors inside large airways: This technique uses a focused beam of intense light to remove tumors located within the airways.
- Cauterization of tumors inside large airways: This method involves using heat, electric current, or caustic substances to destroy tumors within the airways.
These treatments aim to alleviate dyspnea by addressing the underlying causes, such as tumors or cancer growths obstructing air passages. Treatment decisions should be made in consultation with healthcare professionals based on individual circumstances and the specific nature of the condition.
Stent placement
In cases where a tumor is externally pressing on a large airway, causing blockage, surgery may involve placing a stent—a thin tube—within the airway to maintain its patency and keep it open.
Medications
- Treatment options for dyspnea related to various conditions affecting the lungs may include:
- Steroid drugs: These medications can help reduce inflammation and swelling of lymph vessels in the lungs, particularly in conditions such as lymphangitis carcinomatosis.
- Bronchodilators: Inhaled medications that help open up the bronchioles (small airways) in the lungs, which can improve airflow and alleviate breathing difficulties.
- Diuretics and other drugs for heart failure: These medications may be prescribed to manage fluid buildup in the lungs associated with heart failure, thereby reducing dyspnea.
- Antibiotics: In cases of chest infections, antibiotics may be necessary to treat the underlying infection. Chest physical therapy may also be recommended alongside antibiotics.
- Opioids: For individuals experiencing moderate to severe pain associated with dyspnea, opioids may be prescribed to help manage pain and improve comfort.
- Anticoagulants: In situations where blood clots are blocking blood vessels in the lungs, anticoagulant therapy may be administered to prevent further clot formation and improve blood flow, thereby reducing dyspnea.