Radiation therapy uses special equipment to deliver high doses of radiation (beam of x-rays) to kill or damage cancerous tumours so they cannot grow or spread. Radiation therapy affects only the tumour and the surrounding area. Normal cells may be affected by radiation, but most appear to fully recover from the effects of the treatment. Some cancers are very sensitive to radiation but not all.

 

Radiotherapy is usually given in small doses over a period of time; this is known as a course. A doctor who manages your radiotherapy is called a radiation oncologist. To learn more about the treatment and techniques provided at ARO click here.

 

Possible side effects:

The peak of any side effects experienced may occur around 7 to 14 days after the completion of radiation therapy. This is due to the cumulative nature of the treatment. Most side effects only last a few weeks but some of the effects, such as tiredness, may last for a couple of months after the end of your treatment. However, patients should gradually start to feel like normal again.

 

For two weeks after completing treatment we advise patients continue with any special skin care instructions. We also advise patients to avoid direct sunlight on the treated area, and to avoid baths and using hot pools until any skin reaction has completely healed.

 

The skin in the treatment area will always be more sensitive to the sun so patients should apply sun-block to any exposed, previously treated skin when going outside. Should patients have experienced a skin reaction they should not apply sunscreen to the treated skin until it has completely healed.

 

A few patients experience some long term side effects. These can develop gradually over several months or years and will be monitored by the specialist team.

 

Radiation therapists are highly trained and skilled health professionals who work in conjunction with the radiation oncologist to coordinate, design and implement your treatment programme. Radiation therapists work in coordinated teams and will be involved in all aspects of your care.