According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer is the second most common form of cancer in both men and women. Lung cancer is also the leading cause of cancer death for men and women. When lung cancer reaches its final stage, the patient will experience several physical and emotional changes. Therefore, as the patient’s loved one, it’s important for you to understand what the common signs and symptoms of end-of-life lung cancer are, and how you can comfort your loved one during their time of need.
What are the signs of end-of-life lung cancer?
Below are some of the most common signs of end-of-life lung cancer. If you notice some of these symptoms in your loved one, we recommend contacting their primary care physician and/or hospice care provider immediately:
- Persistent cough and shortness of breath
- Fluid build-up around lungs
- Severe fatigue
- Loss of appetite and nausea
Tips for managing end-of-life lung cancer.
As a family caregiver, there are several things you can do to help manage the symptoms of end-of-life lung cancer. Even if you do not have any medical training, providing comfort to a loved one can be fairly simple. For instance, if they are experiencing fatigue, help them by providing plenty of opportunities to rest. If they are confused or angry, try your best to calm them, answer their questions, and address their concerns. Additionally, you can help by staying in contact with the patient’s primary care physician or hospice provider, and communicating what lung cancer end-of-life signs you may be noticing.
What you can do for your loved one.
In addition to addressing the physical symptoms of end-stage lung cancer, a family caregiver can provide emotional support by being there for the patient, letting them talk or cry or just enjoy your company. You can speak to the patient regarding their end-of-life financial plans and how they would like to spend their final days. It may also help if you speak to the patient about the benefits of hospice care, which can aid in providing physical, emotional, and spiritual support.
Hospice eligibility and lung cancer.
If you would like to learn more about the signs and symptoms of end-of-life lung cancer, or have questions about hospice eligibility, you can learn more here, or you can contact Crossroads by selecting an option from the blue help center bar on this page.
End-of-Life signs by disease.
Learn about the specific end-of-life signs of common diseases and illnesses: