Weighing the Consequences of Radiation Therapy

At RCCA, radiation therapy is one of the most common methods of treating cancer. It employs high-energy waves to target and kill cancer cells. While it can be very effective, it’s not right for every patient. Before you and your doctors make the decision to pursue radiation, take some time to understand the potential risks and benefits so that you can make the best decision for your health.

What to Expect

Radiation is commonly relied on to treat a variety of cancers, both as an individual treatment and in concert with chemotherapy, immunotherapy or surgical treatment. Everyone responds to radiation therapy differently, and there’s no way to predict how it will affect you. However, there are some common side effects, including:

• Fatigue
• Skin problems
• Hair loss
• Low blood counts
• Swelling
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea

Most of these side effects are short-term and go away after treatment. Many also apply only to the area that’s being treated. For example, if your chest is being treated, you will likely only have hair loss and skin changes on your chest, if at all. Some people may experience more severe side effects that cause the doctor to halt radiation or change the treatment schedule. Others may not experience any side effects at all.

There may also be additional side effects based on the location and type of cancer you have. If the brain is being treated, for example, patients might also experience headaches and blurred vision.

Other Important Things to Know about Radiation Therapy

Because radiation therapy is a localized treatment, healthy cells are generally unaffected. However, it is possible for some healthy cells to be affected and for there to be long-term side effects. At RCCA, doctors plan treatment very carefully so as to minimize the risk of serious side effects as much as possible.

During treatment, side effects can limit a patient’s ability to do certain activities and cause them to rest more than usual. Some patients, however, feel well enough to continue working. No matter what, you’ll never have to go through treatment alone. Your RCCA care team can help you cope emotionally, spiritually and physically and help alleviate symptoms.

Talk to Your Doctor Today

For more insight into how radiation therapy might affect you now and in the future, talk to your doctor. It’s important to discuss all potential risks and to weigh them against other treatment options that might be available to you, such as chemotherapy or clinical trials.