Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays or particles to **destroy cancer cells**. It can cure some cancers, shrink tumors before surgery, treat areas after surgery, or relieve symptoms.
How Radiation Works
- Radiation damages cancer cell DNA so the cells stop dividing and die.
- Treatments are precisely aimed to minimize effects on nearby healthy tissue.
- Often used **alone** or **with** surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy.
You do not become radioactive after external-beam radiation. Most people are safe to be around family—including children—immediately after sessions.
The Planning Process (“Simulation”)
- Consult: Review diagnosis, goals, and options with a radiation oncologist.
- CT simulation: A planning scan in treatment position; may include MRI/PET fusion.
- Immobilization: Custom molds/masks to help you stay still for accuracy.
- Skin marks/tattoos: Small marks help align the machine each session.
- Treatment plan: Physicists and doctors design beams/fields and verify safety.
Common Types of Radiation
External-Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)
- 3D-CRT shapes beams to the tumor.
- IMRT / VMAT modulates intensity for highly conformal dosing.
- SBRT / SABR very precise, high-dose treatments in a few sessions.
- Proton therapy uses protons; deposits most energy at a “Bragg peak,” sparing tissues beyond the target.
Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation)
- Radioactive sources placed **inside or next to** the tumor (temporary or permanent seeds).
- Common for **prostate, cervix, uterus, breast**, and select head & neck or skin cancers.
- Because the source is internal, dose falls off quickly—protecting nearby tissue.
What to Expect During Treatment
- Most EBRT sessions last **10–20 minutes**; actual radiation is only a few minutes.
- Treatments are typically **once daily, Monday–Friday**, for **1–7 weeks** (SBRT can be 1–5 treatments).
- You won’t feel, see, or smell the radiation. The team watches from a control room and can talk to you.
Side Effects (Vary by Body Area & Dose)
Common/General
- Fatigue (builds gradually)
- Skin changes in the treated area (redness, dryness, tanning, peeling)
- Hair loss in the radiation field
By Treatment Area (Examples)
- Head & Neck: dry mouth, taste changes, mouth/throat soreness, swallowing trouble
- Breast/Chest: skin reaction, breast swelling/tenderness; rare heart/lung irritation
- Lung: cough or shortness of breath (radiation pneumonitis risk)
- Abdomen/Pelvis: nausea, diarrhea, bladder or bowel irritation
- Brain/Spine: localized hair loss, headache, edema (managed with meds)
Many effects are temporary and improve after treatment. Your team will tailor prevention and relief strategies to you.
Skin Care Tips During EBRT
- Use mild soap, lukewarm water, and pat skin dry; avoid scrubbing marks.
- Apply recommended moisturizer; avoid perfumes/irritants on treated skin.
- Protect from sun: clothing + SPF 30+ after your team says it’s okay to apply.
- Wear soft, loose fabrics; avoid heating pads/ice directly on the area.
Long-Term / Late Effects (Depend on Site/Dose)
- Fibrosis (stiffness), changes in skin color/texture
- Hormone or fertility effects (pelvic/brain radiation)
- Small risk of second cancers years later
Your radiation oncologist balances benefits and risks and uses planning techniques to limit dose to healthy organs.
Safety & FAQs
Do I become radioactive?
External-beam: No—there’s no radiation left in your body after each session. Brachytherapy: You might have short-term precautions while a temporary source is in place or if permanent seeds are used; your team will give written guidance.
Can I keep working or exercising?
Many people continue daily activities with adjustments. Light activity can help fatigue. Listen to your body and follow your care team’s advice.
How will my progress be monitored?
Weekly on-treatment visits check side effects and adjust care. Follow-up imaging/exams assess response after you finish.
Working With Your Care Team
- Report new symptoms promptly—earlier management works best.
- Ask about **nutrition**, **speech/swallow therapy**, **physical therapy**, or **saliva/skin care** if relevant.
- Discuss fertility preservation when treating the pelvis or some brain areas.
đź’ˇ Questions to Ask Your Doctor
- What is the goal—cure, control, or symptom relief?
- How many treatments will I need, and over how long?
- Which organs are near the treatment area, and how will you protect them?
- What side effects should I expect short- and long-term?
- Are proton therapy or SBRT options for me?
Sources: National Cancer Institute — Radiation Therapy • American Cancer Society. Educational use only; always follow your oncology team’s guidance.