Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am a 50-year-old male and weigh around 167 pounds. I recently underwent surgery in which two lobes of my right lung were removed due to cancer. My recovery is going well, but I feel breathless even while climbing a few stairs and sometimes experience mild chest discomfort.
My doctor told me that my lung function will improve slowly, but I am worried about the long term.
What is the expected breathing capacity at the age of 50 after the removal of two lung lobes? Will I ever return to a normal activity level?
Will I always have reduced stamina?
Kindly advise.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I read the query and understand your concern.
First of all, congratulations on successfully coming through the surgery, and I am glad to hear that your recovery is progressing well.
The operation you underwent is considered major surgery. Since two lobes of your right lung were removed, it is expected that your lung capacity is lower than it was before the operation. Therefore, activities that previously felt easy, such as climbing stairs, may now cause shortness of breath and fatigue.
However, the lungs have a remarkable ability to adapt over time. Most patients experience gradual improvement in breathing and exercise tolerance over several months. Recovery may continue for up to one year or even longer.
The extent of improvement depends on factors such as your preoperative lung function, smoking history, physical fitness, and whether you have other lung conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
You may not regain exactly the same lung capacity that you had before surgery, but many patients can return to a good level of daily activity and lead an active and independent life. Pulmonary rehabilitation and breathing exercises under the guidance of a physiotherapist can significantly improve endurance and quality of life.
Continue regular follow-up with your oncologist and thoracic surgeon. Seek medical attention if you develop worsening breathlessness, persistent chest pain, fever, coughing up blood, or a sudden decline in exercise capacity.
I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.
Thank you.
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