6 Ways to Deal With The Side-effects After Radiation Therapy Treatment

Radiation Therapy is an intense, high energy treatment for cancer. Cancer is, by definition, uncontrolled, and abnormal cells in your body, which spread rapidly. Old cells, instead of dying off, accelerate the growth of these abnormal cells, often forming a lump of tissue or tumour.

6 Ways to Deal With The Side-effects After Radiation Therapy Treatment

Not only can malignant tumours attack the body, but they can spread rapidly to other parts of the body and become life-threatening.

Around 1.7 million people are diagnosed with cancer each year, & 600,000 people die from it each year. About half of all people living with cancer have radiation therapy as part of their treatment by an Oncologist. Unfortunately, this life-saving treatment has a number of side effects. The effects of radiation therapy are divided into two types, short term, and long term effects.

Short term effects commonly include:

● Short term effects are fatigue, skin rashes and burns similar to a sunburn, and hair loss.

● Usually, these short term effects go away a few weeks after the radiation ceases.

 Longer effects, which may show up a year or even years later include:

● Fertility problems

● Heart problems

● Lung problems

● Osteoporosis.

● Secondary cancers

Tip 1- Get plenty of sleep

Radiotherapy is a major shock to most people. Not only does the combination of cancer and radiation therapy zap people's strength, but they may stay up all night worrying about the results, worrying about how to pay their bills, worrying if their family is prepared, and more.

To cope with this first resists the urge to take naps during the day. You'll sleep better and longer if you sleep at night.

Do word puzzles or create a breathing routine that helps you get to sleep. Consult your oncologist is you still have problems. They may recommend a mile sleeping pill.

Tip 2 - Be very careful with your skin

Rashes and burns are very common with radiotherapy. It would help if you were careful with your skin. Avoid putting anything hot on your skin such as a heating pad, nor using anything cold.

Clean your skin with gentle soap & water. Avoid powders, lotions, perfumes or anything that might irritate the skin. Dress lightly, never wearing skin-tight clothing, and be sure to cover up when going outdoors. Visit website for more.

Tip 3 - Consider emotional counseling

Many cancer patients have a great deal of emotional turmoil when they are undergoing radiation therapy. The vast majority of oncologists and their Oncology team suggest patients and their families consider getting professional counseling or joining a support group to keep patients mentally optimistic.

Tip 4 - Watch your diet

Many radiation therapy patients experience nausea during their treatment and don't feel like eating. Most Oncologists will recommend their patients see a dietician before undergoing radiotherapy. A dietician can help you with recipes for easy to digest soups and meals that will keep your nutrition and energy level up as far as possible. Also, they will caution you to drink plenty of water.

Tip 5 - Wear the right clothing

In an article, one patient mentioned that one thing they don't prepare you for is how cold the therapy room is. With rare exceptions, you'll be allowed to wear a scarf, woolly socks and a hat. This could get all the difference in your comfort level.

Tip 6 - Be an active patient

Only your on will be able to answer questions about your treatment, but whenever you think of a question to ask them, write it down. Your oncologist would much prefer you be an active patient rather than just silently go through the procedure. It actually helps you both.