Treatment FAQ

how long to recover from radiation treatment for skin cancer

by Claud Jaskolski III Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Most side effects generally go away within a few weeks to 2 months of finishing treatment. But some side effects may continue after treatment is over because it takes time for healthy cells to recover from the effects of radiation therapy. Late side effects can happen months or years after treatment.

How long does it take for skin to heal after radiation?

The general effects of radiation therapy like fatigue, nausea, and headaches resolve fairly quickly after treatment. Your body just needs time to process the radiation but can recover within a few weeks. Delayed side effects of radiation therapy, on the other hand, may require further treatment to …

What happens to your skin during radiation treatment for cancer?

Getting radiation treatment is much like getting an x-ray, but the radiation is stronger and aimed more precisely at the cancer. The procedure itself is painless. Each treatment lasts only a few minutes, although the setup time – getting you into place for treatment – takes longer.

How long does radiation therapy for cancer last?

Anyone who has had radiation treatments has a higher risk of developing skin cancer in that area. Skin cancer tends to show up many years later, so this makes sun protection essential for life. To find out how to protect your skin, go to Prevent skin cancer .

What should I expect after radiation treatment?

For most people, the cancer experience doesn’t end on the last day of radiation therapy. Radiation therapy usually does not have an immediate effect, and it could take days, weeks or months to see any change in the cancer. The cancer cells may …

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How long does skin take to heal after radiation therapy?

After three to four weeks, your skin may become dry and peel, or you may notice moist areas. Later effects of radiation may include darkening or thinning of the skin.Nov 29, 2020

Will my skin go back to normal after radiation?

Overall, the most common side effects of radiation are fatigue, redness, swelling, and skin peeling in the area being treated. Radiation side effects may continue to get worse for a week or so after your treatment is completed, but then your skin will start to heal.Dec 16, 2021

How long after radiation do you start to feel better?

Most side effects go away within 1–2 months after you have finished radiation therapy.

What should I avoid after radiation?

Avoid raw vegetables and fruits, and other hard, dry foods such as chips or pretzels. It's also best to avoid salty, spicy or acidic foods if you are experiencing these symptoms. Your care team can recommend nutrient-based oral care solutions if you are experiencing mucositis or mouth sores caused by cancer treatment.Nov 8, 2021

How do you take care of your skin after radiation?

You can reduce the risk of side effects by following these tips:
  1. Wash the treated skin gently every day with warm water. ...
  2. Use a gentle, low-pH cleanser if you need to cleanse. ...
  3. Ignore the lines drawn on your skin. ...
  4. Avoid shaving the treated skin. ...
  5. Apply moisturizer every day as directed.

What are 5 harmful effects of radiation?

Radiation Effects on Humans
Dose (rem)Effects
5-20Possible late effects; possible chromosomal damage.
20-100Temporary reduction in white blood cells.
100-200Mild radiation sickness within a few hours: vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue; reduction in resistance to infection.
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What is the most common acute side effect of radiation treatment?

Fatigue is the most common acute side effect of radiation therapy. It is believed to be caused by the large amount of energy that is used by the body to heal itself in response to radiation therapy. Most people begin to feel fatigued about 2 weeks after radiation treatments begin.

What are the worst side effects of radiotherapy?

Treatment areas and possible side effects
Part of the body being treatedPossible side effects
BrainFatigue Hair loss Memory or concentration problems Nausea and vomiting Skin changes Headache Blurry vision
BreastFatigue Hair loss Skin changes Swelling (edema) Tenderness
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Jan 11, 2022

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