Managing radiation therapy side effects

All of these can affect radiation therapy side effects:

• Type and location of cancer

• Overall health

• Type of radiation therapy used

• Radiation dosage

It’s best to talk with your cancer care team at TMC Health Cancer Center about what to expect.

If you experience side effects such as diarrhea, fatigue, skin changes, difficulty eating, hair loss or nausea, there are ways to reduce their severity. Your care team can provide personalized guidance and support to help manage symptoms.

Taking care of yourself during radiation therapy is essential for managing side effects and maintaining your well-being. Your cancer care team at TMC Health Cancer Center will provide personalized guidance, but here are some general self-care tips:

• Rest – Fatigue is a common side effect. Prioritize getting enough sleep and listening to your body when it needs rest.

• Healthy eating – Nausea or loss of appetite may make it hard to eat regularly, but getting enough calories and nutrients is important to keep up your strength. Try to eat small, healthy meals throughout the day.

• Skin care – External radiation can cause skin irritation similar to sunburn. Ask your care team about approved lotions, soaps and medications to keep the area comfortable and protected.

• Stay in communication with your care team – Keep your doctors updated on all medications and supplements, including vitamins, herbs, aromatherapy oils and aspirin. Avoid new supplements without consulting your doctor. Also, track symptoms and side effects in a small notebook to discuss at your next appointment.

Your cancer care team is here to help—talk with them about any concerns so they can provide support, symptom relief and additional resources.

The National Cancer Institute provides practical tips to help you during radiation therapy. These resources cover self-care, symptom relief and when to contact your doctor.

• When you have loose stools (diarrhea)

• When you feel weak or tired (fatigue)

• About hair loss (alopecia): managing radiation side effects

• When your mouth or throat hurts

• About changes in sexuality and fertility in men

• About changes in sexuality and fertility in women

• About mild skin changes

• About changes when you urinate