Cancer Radiotherapy FAQs
What is Cancer radiotherapy?
Almost all cancer radiotherapy FAQs have this question especially because many people do not know what to expect. Cancer radiotherapy is merely treating cancer using radio waves like X-rays, which kill the cancer cells.
Cancer radiotherapy preparation
Planning how to use radiotherapy to kill the cancer cells takes some research, doctors will need to find the exact place where the cancer is located with the use of X-ray pictures and a CT scan, which yields a three dimensional pictures of your organs. In addition some doctors may also require MRI scans using magnets as well as radio waves in order to produce a full image of your internals. You’ll also need to visit the hospital’s radio therapy department prior to your treatment where a simulator will be used to plan how the radiation doses will be administered.
Cancer radiotherapy FAQs – what happens?
Many times there are a number of professionals who are involved in the whole treatment process. This will be a type of multidisciplinary team. The treatment is usually overseen by a clinical oncologist who is a cancer specialist. Then there is a radiographer who operates the equipment. In addition there will also be a radiologist who will help with assessing how the body is responding to the treatment. You will mainly be in contact with a nurse specialist during your treatment and will also be there for support and help. You are allowed to see other professionals such as a dietician, pharmacist and a physiotherapist. The behind the scenes work are done by medical physicists who calculate the right and effective dose of radiation.
Types of cancer radiotherapy treatment
There are two main types of radiotherapy treatment i.e. internal radiotherapy and external beam therapy.
What are the side effects of Cancer Radiotherapy?
There are quite a few side effects many of which are unwanted but they are temporary. The types of side effects can vary depending on what body part was treated. Your doctor will probably give you a list of possible side effects associated with your treatment.
Some of the more common side effects include:
- tiredness
- lack of appetite
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- itchy skin
- asthma like short of breath feeling
- weight loss
- hair loss
- depression, anxious feelings and feeling low
- muscular stiffness
There may also be some long-term side effect associated with cancer radiotherapy which include:
- chronic tiredness
- scars on the skin
- darkened skin
- the hair that grows back may be a different color and texture
- permanent hair loss
- small red spots on the skin
- swelling in your arms and legs
How will I recover from cancer radiotherapy?
After your have been treated with radiation your doctor / clinical oncologist may arrange for a meeting with another doctor who will check how you are recovering as well as try to sort out some of the side effects you may be experiencing. This may also be a good time to ask the doctor about the long term effects you may have to deal with. In most cases a diet and exercise program is prescribed along with scheduled regular visits.