My grandfather has stage 4 non small cell lung cancer with recurring bacterial pneumonia.  He is on 11 liters of oxygen keeping him around 89 on pulse ox.  When not wearing his mask for a short time he drops in to the 40s..is this normal at this stage of the disease
Hi, Thanks for writing in. Recurring bacterial pneumonia is a known complication of non-small cell lung cancer in the elderly. The Chat Doctor.  This is not normal but shows that he is unable to cope up with his oxygen demands when not using the mask. The above situation requires an aggressive treatment of his bacterial pneumonia. Cancer treatment causes reduced immunity and this allows the bacteria to colonize in the lungs and respiratory passage. With increasing infection there is reduced lung function and decreased capacity for the exchange of respiratory gases. Giving the right antibiotics and taken good care will treat the infection. Please do not worry.