Radiation Therapy

The treatment of cancer and other diseases with penetrating beams of high-energy waves, or streams of particles, delivered via machines or radioactive substances.

Radiation therapy works by damaging cancer cells that, by nature, divide and grow more quickly than normal cells. Once damaged, the cancer cells are unable to grow. Although some normal cells may be damaged in the process, these normal cells are able to repair themselves and function properly.

There are two main types of radiation therapy:
  •  External - radiation is delivered by a machine from outside the body
  •  Internal - radioactive materials are placed in the body near the cancer cells; also called implant radiation or brachytherapy
In certain cases, some doctors may recommend a combination of internal and external radiation. Radiation is often used in conjunction with other types of treatment, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy (the stimulation of the immune system to fight infection).

Parts of the Body Involved

This depends on the type of cancer being treated

Reasons for Procedure

  • To control the growth or spread of cancer
  • To cure disease by completely eliminating growth
  • To alleviate or reduce the symptoms of pain, this is called palliative radiation
Radiation therapy is commonly used to treat the following types of cancer:
  • Localized solid tumors (e.g., cancers of the skin, neck, tongue, larynx, brain, breast, prostate, or cervix)
  • Leukemia
  • Lymphoma

Risk Factors for Complications during the Procedure

Previous radiation therapy

A woman who is pregnant or could possibly be pregnant should avoid exposure to radiation to prevent harm to the developing fetus.

What to Expect

External Radiation

Prior to Procedure -You will go through a process called simulation. This process takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours. During simulation, you will:
  • Lie on an exam table while a radiation therapist uses an x-ray machine to define the exact place(s) where radiation will be directed. The therapist may mark the exact radiation area with colored ink.
  • Depending on the type of treatment required, you may also undergo:
    • CT scan

Outcome

Ideally, radiation therapy will result in shrinkage or complete elimination of the cancerous or diseased area.

Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following Occurs

  • Signs of infection, including fever and chills
  • Cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or severe nausea or vomiting
  • Pain that doesn't go away, especially if it's always in the same place
  • New or unusual lumps, bumps, or swelling
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fever or cough that doesn't go away
  • Unusual rashes, bruises, or bleeding
  • Any symptoms that you are concerned about
  • Any other warning signs mentioned by your doctor or nurse