Lung cancer may require surgery, radiation therapy , or chemotherapy . People with anemia , or low blood counts, may need a blood transfusion . All medications have possible side effects. These may include allergic reactions , stomach upset, and headaches. Specific side effects depend on the medications used.
Surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection, and reaction to any pain medications used.
More specific side effects depend on the surgery done. Blood transfusions carry a risk of allergic reactions and infections. This depends on the cause of shortness of breath. If the underlying cause goes away, no further treatment may be needed. In these cases, people can return to normal activities as soon as they feel able.