Surgery, radiation and chemotherapy are the three main methods of cancer treatment. The type of treatment depends on the size, extent of the disease, the type of lung cancer and the general health of the patient. 

Surgery

Part of the lung or the whole lung may be removed in the treatment of lung cancer. Before surgery, the patient will undergo a lung function test to assess the functional capacity of the existing lung. After surgery, these patients may require assisted ventilation for a short period. Physical activities may also be limited for a short period. If the remaining lung function is good, the patient will be able to continue a normal life. 

Chemotherapy

Certain types of lung cancer are sensitive to chemotherapy treatment. This form of treatment is increasingly being used in combination with surgery or with radiation. As newer drugs are discovered and their range of efficacy increased, the use of chemotherapy will increase. Side-effects of chemotherapy such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea can be overcome with medications. 

Radiation

Radiation or the use of x-rays to treat lung cancer may be in conjunction with surgery or as a palliative treatment to relieve the pressure symptoms or pain caused by the lung cancer. Side-effects of radiation such as tiredness, skin rash or sore throat are transient.