Radiation therapy is a common way to treat cancer. It uses strong energy, like X-rays, to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. This treatment can be used on its own or along with other methods, such as surgery or chemotherapy, depending on the type and stage of cancer.
There are different types of radiation therapy. The most common one uses a machine that sends rays from outside the body, while another type places a small source of radiation inside the body near the cancer. Some people may also receive radiation through medicine that spreads in the body. The kind of treatment a person gets depends on where the cancer is and how serious it is.
Radiation therapy is painless during treatment and usually takes just a few minutes. However, it can cause side effects like tiredness or skin changes. These side effects are often temporary and can be managed. Radiation therapy has helped many people by shrinking tumors, easing symptoms, and improving quality of life. In this blog, we’ll explain how radiation therapy works, when it’s used, and what side effects you might expect.
How Does Radiation Therapy Work?
Radiation therapy works by damaging the inside parts of cancer cells, so they can’t grow or spread. Over time, the damaged cells die, and the body gets rid of them. This helps to shrink the tumor or stop it from getting bigger.
There are two main ways to give radiation. One way is called external beam radiation therapy. A large machine sends strong energy beams to the part of the body where the cancer is. The beams are aimed carefully so they hit the cancer but avoid as much healthy tissue as possible.
The other way is called internal radiation therapy, or brachytherapy. In this method, small amounts of radiation are placed inside the body, close to or inside the tumor. This means the cancer gets a high dose of radiation, while the healthy parts nearby are less likely to be harmed.
When is Radiation Therapy Used?
Radiation therapy is used to treat many types of cancer. Doctors may use it as the main treatment to get rid of cancer or to help other treatments work better. Sometimes, it is given before surgery to shrink a tumor, or after surgery to kill any cancer cells that might be left behind.
It can also be used with chemotherapy to make the treatment stronger. In some cases, radiation is used to relieve symptoms like pain, bleeding, or pressure caused by cancer. This is called palliative care and helps improve comfort and quality of life.
Radiation therapy may be used for cancers in the breast, prostate, lung, brain, head and neck, and many other areas. The decision to use radiation depends on the type of cancer, where it is in the body, and the person’s overall health. Doctors will explain the best plan for each patient.
Side Effects Of Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy can cause side effects because it may also affect some healthy cells near the cancer. These side effects can vary from person to person. Some people feel only mild changes, while others may feel more discomfort. Most side effects go away after treatment ends, but some might last longer. The type of side effects you experience depends on where the radiation is aimed and how long the treatment lasts. Your care team will help manage any side effects and support you throughout your treatment.
Common side effects include:
- Fatigue: Feeling very tired is one of the most common side effects. It may build up over time and can last for weeks after treatment ends. Resting and saving energy can help.
- Skin problems: The skin in the treated area may become red, dry, sore, or itchy—similar to a sunburn. In some cases, the skin may peel or darken. Gentle skin care is important during this time.
- Hair loss: You may lose hair in the area being treated. For example, if you get radiation to the head, you may lose scalp hair. This is usually temporary.
- Nausea and vomiting: If the stomach or lower chest is treated, you may feel sick or vomit. Eating small meals and drinking fluids can help.
- Appetite loss: You might not feel hungry or enjoy food like usual. It’s important to try to eat enough to keep your strength up.
- Mouth and throat problems: If radiation is given to the head, neck, or chest, it can cause a sore throat, dry mouth, or mouth sores, making it hard to eat or swallow.
- Diarrhea: If the belly or pelvic area is treated, you may have loose stools or need to go to the toilet more often.
- Bladder changes: Radiation to the pelvic area may cause frequent urination or a burning feeling when passing urine.
- Changes in sexual health or fertility: Radiation to the pelvic area can affect fertility or cause discomfort during sex.
Always talk to your doctor or nurse if you notice side effects. They can offer medicine, tips, or changes in care to help you feel better.
Managing Side Effects
While radiation therapy can cause side effects, there are many ways to manage them and stay as comfortable as possible. Your healthcare team will guide you through the process and check in with you regularly. It’s important to tell your doctor or nurse about any side effects you notice, even if they seem small. Getting help early can prevent problems from getting worse and make your treatment easier to handle.
Tips for managing side effects:
- Get plenty of rest: Fatigue is common, so try to rest when you feel tired. Don’t push yourself too hard, and ask for help with daily tasks if needed.
- Eat healthy meals: Choose soft, easy-to-digest foods if your mouth or stomach is sore. Eating small meals more often can help with nausea and improve energy.
- Drink enough water: Staying hydrated helps your body recover and may reduce some side effects.
- Take care of your skin: Use mild soap and avoid lotions or creams on the treated area unless your doctor says it’s okay. Wear soft, loose clothing.
- Tell your care team about any pain or discomfort: They may give you medicine or advice to help with mouth sores, nausea, or other issues.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol: These can make some side effects worse and slow down healing.
- Stay connected: Talk to family, friends, or a counselor if you’re feeling low or anxious. Emotional support is important too.
By working closely with your care team and following their advice, most side effects can be managed well.
Conclusion
Radiation therapy is a common and effective way to treat many types of cancer. It works by using strong energy to destroy cancer cells and stop them from growing. While it can cause side effects, most of them can be managed with proper care and support.
Every person’s experience with radiation therapy is different. Some may have only mild side effects, while others may need more help during treatment. The most important thing is to stay in touch with your doctor and let them know how you’re feeling. With the right care, radiation therapy can be a helpful step on the path to recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most radiation treatments only take a few minutes each day. The full course usually lasts several weeks, with daily sessions from Monday to Friday, depending on the cancer type.
Radiation therapy itself does not cause pain. You won’t feel the radiation during treatment, though side effects like skin irritation or soreness can occur afterward.
Radiation therapy can cure some types of cancer, especially when used early. It can also control cancer growth, shrink tumors, or relieve symptoms when a cure isn’t possible.
Before starting, your doctor will do tests and create a treatment plan. You should ask questions, follow any instructions about diet or skin care, and tell your care team about any health issues.
Many people can keep doing their usual daily activities, but you might feel tired. It’s important to listen to your body and rest when needed.
After treatment, you will have follow-up visits to check how the cancer is responding and manage any side effects. Some effects might last weeks or months, so your doctor will support you during recovery.