Radiotherapy: what it is, when it is done and side effects

Radiotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that aims to destroy or prevent the growth of tumor cells through the application of radiation, which is similar to that used in X-ray exams, directly on the tumor.

This type of treatment can be used alone or together with chemotherapy or surgery, but it usually does not cause hair loss, as its effects are only felt at the treatment site and depend on the type and amount of radiation used on the patient.

When is indicated

Radiotherapy is indicated to treat or control the growth of benign tumors or cancer and can be used before, during or after treatment with surgery or chemotherapy.

However, when this type of treatment is used only to relieve the symptoms of the tumor such as pain or bleeding, it is called palliative radiation therapy, used especially in advanced and difficult-to-cure stages of cancer.

Side effects of radiotherapy

Side effects depend on the type of treatment used, radiation doses, the size and location of the tumor and the general health of the patient, but they can usually occur:

Redness, dryness, blisters, itching or flaking of the skin; Tiredness and lack of energy that does not improve even with rest; Dry mouth and sore gums; Problems with swallowing; Nausea and vomiting; Diarrhea; Bloating; Urinary and bladder problems; Hair loss, especially when applied to the head; Absence of menstruation, vaginal dryness and infertility in women, when applied to the pelvis region; Sexual impotence and infertility in men, when applied to the pelvis region.

In general, these reactions begin during the 2nd or 3rd week of treatment, and can last up to several weeks after the last application. In addition, side effects are more severe when radiotherapy is done together with chemotherapy. Know the side effects of chemotherapy.

Care during treatment

To alleviate the symptoms and side effects of the treatment, some precautions must be taken, such as avoiding sun exposure, using skin products based on Aloe vera or chamomile and keeping the place clean and free of creams or moisturizers during radiation sessions.

In addition, you can speak to the doctor to use medications that fight pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, which helps to relieve tiredness and facilitate eating during treatment.

Types of radiotherapy

There are 3 types of treatment using radiation and they are used according to the type and size of the tumor to be treated:

1. Radiotherapy with external beam or teletherapy

It is the type of radiation most commonly used, emitted by a device directed to the place to be treated. In general, applications are made daily and last from 10 to 40 minutes, during which time the patient is lying down and does not feel any discomfort.