Radiation therapy is considered one of the most effective ways to treat cancer. It can be used as it is or with a combination of other cancer treatments. Being diagnosed with cancer is one of the most traumatic experiences one can go through, and the patient and the rest of their family go through a trying time.
However, radiation therapy gives the patient a fighting chance to beat the illness. Here are a few things you should know about before going in for radiation therapy.
- Being Fitted for a Cradle
When you are ready for therapy, you will most likely be fitted for a cradle. This is a structure that will help you hold your position during the treatment. It allows the radiation to reach the tumor and prevents you from shifting so that the other organs are not harmed in any way.
- Skin Irritation
Many doctors term this as skin breaking down. This happens because the skin around the radiation zone might become red and sensitive. The skin could also dissolve, and doctors recommend ointments to heal the skin quickly.
While some patients only notice mild irritation, it can be quite severe for some, and it could take some while for the skin to reappear.
- Feeling Uncomfortable
Radiation therapy will not cause you discomfort during the process. Like X-rays, radiation beams too will not cause you any pain or irritation during the procedure. However, over time, you could end up feeling uncomfortable.
By the fifth or sixth week of treatment, you will need all your strength and courage to resume your treatment. Doctors usually give a two-week break in treatment so that the body can acclimatize to the therapy.
- Side Effects
Radiation therapy does have side effects. This may vary from patient to patient. You might suffer from lymphedema, which is swelling of your legs. This mainly happens if fluids start getting trapped in your body.
You could also suffer from nausea, and there might be days when even turning sides on the bed might seem very difficult. Your oncologist would mostly tell you about all the different kinds of side effects you could be suffering from and prepare you accordingly, but it is still a good idea to know what to expect.
- Taking Precautions
Contrary to popular belief, your body will not turn radioactive with external radiation therapy. However, internal radiation can make your body give off low-level radioactive energy. At this point, you must ideally restrict exposing yourself to children or pregnant women.
Depending on the duration of your treatment, your items of personal use might turn radioactive. Hence, you should seek advice from your doctor about the precautions you should take in case of systematic radiation therapy.
Rest adequately and have as many fluids as possible. You must also take a good deal of rest during your radiation therapy. You should follow all skincare regimens prescribed by the doctor, especially where the radiation enters the body.
Use mild cleansers and medically recommended lotions and ointments only, and stay away from cosmetic products. With proper care, you will have excellent chances of beating the tumor with radiation.
Also Read: 6 Things to Know About Neurofeedback Therapy for Trauma
