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Lung cancer remains one of the most common and challenging cancers worldwide. While advancements in treatment have improved survival and quality of life for many, patients with advanced-stage lung cancer often face severe pain, emotional distress, and other symptoms that affect their daily living.
This is where palliative care and pain management play a vital role — not just in easing discomfort, but in helping patients live with dignity, comfort, and hope.
In Faridabad, Dr. Sumant Gupta, a leading name in oncology and hematology, is widely regarded as the best oncologist in Faridabad and the best lung cancer doctor in Faridabad, known for his compassionate approach and expertise in palliative and supportive cancer care.
Advanced lung cancer refers to Stage III or IV disease, where the cancer has spread beyond the lungs to other parts of the body such as the bones, liver, or brain. At this stage, the focus of care often shifts from curative treatment to symptom relief, emotional well-being, and quality of life.
Patients may experience:
Severe or chronic chest pain
Shortness of breath or coughing
Fatigue and weakness
Loss of appetite or weight
Emotional distress, anxiety, or depression
These symptoms can be overwhelming for both patients and families. That’s why palliative care — an essential branch of oncology — becomes as important as the treatment itself.
Palliative care is specialized medical care focused on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses like cancer. It is not limited to end-of-life care; rather, it begins early — often alongside active cancer treatment — to manage symptoms and provide holistic support.
Relief from pain and other distressing symptoms
Improvement in physical and emotional well-being
Support for patients and families in coping with the disease
Guidance in making informed decisions about treatment and care
Coordination between oncologists, palliative specialists, and caregivers
At the core of palliative care lies the idea that living well with cancer is just as important as treating it.
Pain is one of the most feared and common symptoms of advanced lung cancer. It can result from tumor growth pressing on nerves, bones, or organs, or as a side effect of surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
Somatic pain: Originating from muscles or bones
Visceral pain: Caused by internal organ pressure or stretching
Neuropathic pain: Due to nerve compression or damage
Managing pain effectively requires a multidisciplinary approach — combining medications, procedures, emotional support, and rehabilitation.
Pain relief medicines are prescribed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) Pain Ladder, progressing from mild to strong agents as needed.
Non-opioid analgesics: Paracetamol, NSAIDs
Weak opioids: Codeine, tramadol for moderate pain
Strong opioids: Morphine, oxycodone, fentanyl for severe pain
Adjuvant medications: Antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or corticosteroids for nerve pain or inflammation
Proper titration and monitoring ensure pain control without excessive sedation or dependency.
In cases where medications are insufficient, interventional pain techniques such as nerve blocks, epidural analgesia, or targeted radiotherapy to painful metastases can provide significant relief.
Even in advanced stages, palliative radiotherapy can effectively reduce pain from bone or chest metastases, shrinking tumors and improving breathing comfort.
These treatments may not aim to cure the disease but can help control symptoms, reduce tumor burden, and extend survival — often with improved quality of life.
Pain is not just physical — it has emotional and psychological dimensions. Palliative care teams include counselors and psychologists to help patients cope with anxiety, fear, and depression associated with advanced cancer.
Apart from pain, patients with advanced lung cancer may experience multiple symptoms that need specialized care:
Oxygen therapy, bronchodilators, or low-dose opioids may help.
Relaxation techniques and breathing exercises can reduce anxiety-related breathlessness.
Energy conservation strategies, gentle physiotherapy, and nutritional support can improve stamina and daily function.
Anti-nausea medications, dietary modifications, and smaller, frequent meals are recommended.
Nebulizers, steroids, and medications to suppress cough can improve comfort.
Counseling, meditation, and mild antidepressants form an integral part of holistic cancer care.
Palliative care extends beyond medical management — it includes emotional and social support for families.
Caregivers play a vital role in:
Ensuring medication adherence
Managing appointments and daily care routines
Providing emotional reassurance
Communicating patient needs to the medical team
At advanced stages, families often find strength and guidance through the support of experienced oncologists like Dr. Sumant Gupta, who emphasize compassion and clarity in every aspect of patient care.
Dr. Sumant Gupta is a highly respected Oncologist and Hematologist based in Faridabad, recognized for his expertise in lung cancer treatment, pain management, and palliative oncology.
Senior Consultant & Head – Medical Oncology, Hematology & BMT
Director – Metro Cancer Institute, Metro Hospital Faridabad
Over 15 years of experience in treating complex cancer cases
Specializes in lung cancer, bone marrow transplantation, and systemic chemotherapy
Known for his patient-centered approach and commitment to improving quality of life for advanced-stage patients
Dr. Gupta leads a multidisciplinary team that focuses not only on treating cancer but also on relieving pain, preserving dignity, and supporting emotional health — hallmarks of world-class palliative care.
At Metro Cancer Institute, the palliative care program integrates medical expertise with compassion. Patients receive:
Comprehensive pain and symptom management
Emotional and psychological support
Nutritional counseling and physiotherapy
24×7 medical supervision during critical stages
Family education and counseling on home-based palliative care
Under the guidance of Dr. Sumant Gupta, the centre has become a trusted destination for patients seeking both effective treatment and compassionate care.
Palliative care and pain management are essential components of advanced lung cancer treatment. They aim not only to extend life but to make each day more comfortable, meaningful, and dignified.
By integrating medical expertise with emotional and psychological support, patients can experience better quality of life despite the challenges of advanced cancer.
If you or a loved one is battling lung cancer, consult Dr. Sumant Gupta, the best oncologist in Faridabad and the best lung cancer doctor in Faridabad, for comprehensive, compassionate, and personalized care that focuses on healing beyond treatment.
📍 Book an Appointment Today
📞 Call: +91 981 862 8242
🌐 Visit: drsumantgupta.com
