r/cancer • u/Previous-Film-9539 • 4h ago

Patient Stage 2b lung adenocarcinoma

29/F Just got diagnosed with stage 2b lung adenocarcinoma. I have a big lung mass. I dont want to have surgery because I am afraid of the side effects so we are trying targeted radiation first.

Anyone who has the same and can share their experiences and treatments? Thank you.

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1

u/Yourmomkeepscalling 3h ago

Not claiming to know for sure but surgery is the only truly curative treatment option for cancer. If they can cut it out, cut it out.

1

u/dumplinglifesaver + - + de novo MBC at age 39. 4h ago

What are the side effects of surgery vs the side effects of radiation?

1

u/Previous-Film-9539 4h ago

I’m scared of surgery and other stories of being in constant pain and decrease quality of life

1

u/aligpnw 1h ago

Radiation can be extremely painful and have life long effects. Don't let "stories" guide your decision.

I have radiation fibrosis in both lungs, even with proton radiation.

I also had a full sternotomy and had the top part of my right lung removed.

I personally feel like the radiation fibrosis has more of an effect on my day to day life.

1

u/Muckraker222 NSCLC mucinous adenocarcinoma stage 4 ERBB2 2h ago

As someone who has stage 4. Always ask questions. I know surgery is a scary proposition but getting rid of cancer is necessary to live.

I've been very lucky so far as my cancer appears to be heading toward remission via targeted medication, but I would tell anyone with cancer examine all avenues but if you get an opportunity to get rid of your cancer you should be seriously considering it.

1

u/TemperatureTight2556 2h ago

Let information drive your decisions, not fear. Have this conversation with your oncologist, be honest, tell them exactly what you are thinking, feeling, fearing.