Lung cancer is one of the top three forms of cancer in the U.S. Like other forms of cancer, it develops when harmful cells grow uncontrollably and replace healthy cells. These unhealthy cells mutate, multiply rapidly, and often form tumors that prevent the lungs from functioning properly.
Early detection and proper support, such as 24-hour home care, can make a significant difference in managing the disease and improving recovery outcomes.
Risk Factors for Developing Lung Cancer
Like many cancers, several lifestyle factors can increase the risk of developing lung cancer. While some individuals who have never smoked or been exposed to smoke may still develop the disease, statistics show that 80 percent of lung cancer-related deaths are linked to smoking tobacco. Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes significantly raises the risk of lung cancer.
The newer alternative to smoking—vaping—lacks sufficient research to determine its long-term effects on lung cancer risk. However, experts believe that inhaling mist containing tobacco and flavorings will likely damage the lungs over time, though the extent of that damage is still unknown.
Additional risk factors include:
- A family history of lung cancer
- Living or working in environments with harmful substances like asbestos, air pollution, or coal
- Exposure to second-hand smoke
- Receiving radiation treatments to the chest
For individuals at higher risk or those undergoing treatment, 24-hour home care can provide essential support, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment while managing daily challenges.
Lung Cancer Symptoms
Many lung cancer symptoms mimic other minor health conditions in the beginning. If your loved one has any of these symptoms that do not improve over time, he should have them examined.
- A cough that continues to worsen and doesn’t improve within a fairly short time frame.
- Struggling to catch his breath
- Problems with breathing such as wheezing or feeling like he can’t get enough air in his lungs.
- Chest pain or discomfort that gets worse when he exercises
- Coughing up blood
- His voice becomes hoarse
- Lack of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Unexplained fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
- Shoulder pain
Getting Help for Your Loved One During Treatment and Recovery
Like many cancers, if caught early enough, your loved one has a better chance of recovery if he receives treatment. Treatment will be determined by his doctor but can include many aspects such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and more.
If you are not able to be with your loved one as he recovers, especially after surgery, one great option to provide the support he’ll need to stay safe in his home while he’s recovering is 24-hour home care.
With 24-hour home care, your loved one can rest and recover in his home knowing someone is always there to help when it’s needed. If he is too weak or exhausted to make meals, his 24-hour home care team can make sure he’s eating properly to aid in his recovery.
His 24-hour home care team will also help him manage his home when he cannot, as well as provide a constant person nearby in case he needs immediate assistance with anything or a ride anyplace. He gets 24-hour reliable help while getting to stay in his home where he feels comfortable and safe during his recovery.
If you or an aging loved one are considering 24-Hour Home Care in Florence, SC, please contact the caring staff at Avodah Home Care. Call (877) 4-AVODAH
Avodah Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Abbeville, Aiken, Anderson, Barnwell, Calhoun County, Chesterfield County, Darlington, Dillon, Edgefield, Batesburg-Leesville, Florence, Greenville, Greenwood, Columbia, Lexington, Camden, Blythewood, Winnsboro, Orangeburg, Sumter, Gaston, Hopkins, Bishopville and surrounding areas.
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Our team includes registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, certified nursing assistants, home health aides, and other healthcare professionals, all of whom have years of experience in the home care industry. We work together to provide comprehensive care that encompasses both medical and non-medical services, helping our clients maintain their independence and live with dignity in their own homes.
With our decades of experience, we have developed a deep understanding of the home care industry and the best practices for providing high-quality care. We are dedicated to staying up-to-date on the latest advances in care delivery, and we are committed to providing our clients with the most effective, evidence-based care.
At our core, our team is driven by a deep commitment to our clients and their families. We know that home care can be a difficult and challenging journey, and we are here to provide the support, guidance, and care that our clients need to thrive. Our team members are not only experienced professionals, but also compassionate and caring individuals who are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of our clients.
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