What is Radiation Therapy?
Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, is a treatment that uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Unlike diagnostic X-rays, which use lower doses, therapeutic radiation aims to disrupt the DNA of cancer cells, inhibiting their ability to multiply.
How Does Radiation Therapy Work?
Radiation therapy works by damaging the DNA within cancer cells, which prevents them from growing and dividing. The radiation can be delivered externally via a machine called a linear accelerator or internally through a process known as brachytherapy. The type of radiation and delivery method depends on the type and location of the cancer.
What Are the Side Effects?
Side effects of radiation therapy vary depending on the area being treated and the dose of radiation. Common side effects include:
Fatigue
Skin changes (redness, peeling)
Hair loss in the treatment area
Nausea
Changes in appetite
Most side effects are temporary and can be managed with the help of healthcare professionals.
Is Radiation Therapy Safe?
While radiation therapy does pose some risks, it is generally considered safe and its benefits in treating cancer often outweigh the potential risks. Modern techniques like Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) are designed to minimize exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.
How Long Does Treatment Last?
The duration of radiation therapy varies depending on the type and stage of cancer. Treatments are usually given five days a week for several weeks. Each session lasts only a few minutes, although the setup time can be longer.
What Happens During a Radiation Therapy Session?
During a session, the patient lies on a treatment table, and the radiation therapist positions them correctly. The machine may rotate around the patient to deliver radiation from different angles. The patient must remain still, but the procedure is painless. The therapist will monitor the patient from another room.
Can Radiation Therapy Be Combined With Other Treatments?
Yes, radiation therapy is often combined with other treatments such as surgery and chemotherapy. This combination can be more effective in destroying cancer cells. For example, radiation may be used to shrink a tumor before surgery or to eliminate any remaining cancer cells post-surgery.
What Are the Long-Term Effects?
Long-term effects of radiation therapy can include
secondary cancers, fibrosis, and damage to nearby organs. However, these are relatively rare, and ongoing advancements in radiation techniques aim to minimize such risks.
How Do You Prepare for Radiation Therapy?
Preparation for radiation therapy involves several steps, including a simulation session to map out the treatment area. Patients may undergo imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs. Skin markings or temporary tattoos may be applied to ensure precise targeting during each session.
What type of radiation therapy is recommended?
How many sessions will I need?
What side effects should I expect?
How will we monitor my response to treatment?
Are there any lifestyle changes I should make during treatment?
