Many lung cancer patients experience chronic shortness of breath. Sitting upright for radiation therapy treatments uses gravity which may ease stress on airways and increase lung volume. This more comfortable positioning may lead to less distress.
Read MoreLying on a hard, flat surface for any amount of time sets the spine in an unnatural position, causing discomfort to the back and neck and increasing stress/anxiety during treatment. When seated upright, breathing is relaxed and patients are more engaged with their health care providers.
Read MoreDifficulty swallowing (known as dysphagia) is a common ordeal for patients diagnosed with a head or neck cancer. Depending on the severity, having to lie down for radiation treatments may cause choking, aspiration (breathing in a foreign object), difficulty breathing, or other uncomfortable and/or painful symptoms.
Read More
