Lung cancer occurs when abnormal growth and multiplication of lung cells occurs in an uncontrolled way. Also known as bronchial carcinoma, it is one of the commonest types of cancer in the world. It can affect any age group. Smokers and people exposed to chemical fumes and asbestos have a high risk of suffering from this type of cancer. In the early stages of lung cancer, the tumor is restricted to the lung and chest cavity. If the cancer is left untreated, it can affect other organs by spreading and can be life-threatening.

Role of homeopathy in lung cancer

Homeopathic medicines help tackle the symptoms of lung cancer and the side effects of conventional cancer therapy. After the cancer diagnosis, an individual may feel depression, anxiety, fear of death, irritability, impatience behavior, and mood fluctuations. These symptoms can be addressed with homeopathy.

Six homeopathic medicines for lung cancer

Acalypha indica

Common name: Indian acalypha or Indian nettle

Acalypha indica is indicated when there is blood from the lungs in a cough that is bright red and usually worse in the morning. This is accompanied by a hard and dry cough. There is a constant and severe pain in the chest with burning in the pharynx and stomach.

Carcinosinum

Common name: Nosode from carcinoma

Carcinosin reduces the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy and supports the body’s ability to fight lung cancer. Gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, acidosis, indigestion, and belching are frequently observed as associated symptoms. The patient has a strong desire to lie on the chest and is comfortable lying in the knee-elbow position. The symptoms are aggravated by rapid motion, hot weather, seashore, and full moon or new moon.

Arsenic album

Common name: Arsenic

Arsenicum album is often used to alleviate respiratory distress, anxiety, and general weakness in individuals with lung cancer. The patient feels restless and changes places continuously. There are many fears like fear of death and fear of being alone with cold sweat. The patient has a swollen face and yellowness on the face with paleness. The face is covered with cold sweat. There are oral ulcers that feel dry with burning heat.

Gastrointestinal symptoms of nausea, retching, and vomiting after eating or drinking are also present. The patient has suicidal thoughts and feels it is useless to take medicines. Burning in the eyes with acrid lacrimation is also present. All symptoms are worse by cold, cold weather, but only the headache is relieved by cold.

Phosphorus

Common name: Phosphorus

Phosphorus is used to manage symptoms such as chest pain, cough, and hemoptysis (coughing up blood) in lung cancer. There is chest heaviness with burning in the chest. The sputum is bright red in color and the patient may have an excessive desire for cold drinks along with chest symptoms. They want sympathy from everyone and are over-sensitive to small things and words. There is palpitation in the heart, nose bleeds, and shortness of breath on exertion. Loose stool with offensiveness causes complete exhaustion.

Bryonia alba

Common name: Wild hops

Bryonia is used to ease pain, inflammation, and dry cough associated with lung cancer. Rust-colored sputum is spit out with a dry cough. There is a stitching pain in the chest while coughing.

Kalium carbonicum

Common name:  Potassium carbonate

Kali. carb. is indicated for sharp chest pains, cough, and difficulty breathing. It is prescribed to address issues related to the lungs and respiratory system. It may help in managing symptoms like weakness, cough, and pain in the chest.

Symptoms of lung cancer

  • A constant cough with persistent chest pain.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Along with a wheezing sound during respiration.
  • Headache with bony pains.
  • Repeated pneumonia or bronchitis.
  • Swelling of the neck and face.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Weight loss.

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Causative factors of lung cancer

Smoking

Smoking causes the majority of lung cancers. Cigarette, bidi, pipe, and cigar smoking are associated with lung cancer.

Second-hand smoke exposure

Second-hand smoke is when non-smokers are exposed to smoking and have the risk of developing lung cancer. There is always a risk, particularly concerning individuals who share living spaces or workplaces with active smokers.

Exposure to chemicals

Exposure to carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) damages DNA in the cells of the body, and this can cause lung cancer. The person who gets exposed to radon gas has higher chances of lung cancer. Exposure to certain chemicals like silica, asbestos, diesel exhaust, etc. can also cause lung cancer.

Previous cancer treatment

People who have taken chemotherapy and radiation therapy for other cancers are more susceptible to developing lung cancer.

Genetic factors

If your family member has lung cancer, your chances of developing cancer are higher.

Treatment of lung cancer

Lung cancer is usually treated with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, or targeted therapy depending on the extent of the cancer.

Diet and lifestyle modification for lung cancer

Quit smoking

For those who smoke, quitting is essential to improve lung function and overall health.

Healthy diet

Increase the amount of vegetables and fruits in your diet. Eat more fish as they contain a good amount of healthy omega-3 fats and good-quality protein. Use healthy oils in cooking, such as coconut and olive oil. Eat foods high in vitamins and iron, such as whole grains, dark leafy greens (such as spinach and kale), and sea vegetables.

Yoga and exercise

Exercise and yoga improve the cells, tissue health, and strength of the lungs. Daily physical workouts increase lung capacity. Jogging, running, swimming, cycling, tracking, and outdoor sports are highly recommended to prevent lung cancer. Low-impact exercises are always beneficial for good health.

Conclusion

Lung cancer treatment is possible with homeopathy medicines. Homeopathic medicine helps reduce the growth of cancerous cells. They might also help in reducing the speed of duplication and multiplication of lung cancer cells. It is always advised to consult with a qualified homeopathic doctor before taking any medicine for safe and effective treatment.

References

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