Table 1.
| Side effects | Symptoms | Etiology | Complications | Management |
| Permanent dry mouth (xerostomia) | Dry mouth, difficulty in eating, swallow ... | salivary glands cells damage | Opportunistic infections, denture stomat ... | Maintain adequate oral hygiene, salivary ... |
| Burning mouth syndrome | Burning or scalded of mouth; dryness, in ... | Unknown | Depression, anxiety, difficulties in fal ... | Oral rinses, lidocaine, saliva substitut ... |
| Dental caries | Dental caries | Increase of caries producing bacteria, r ... | Osteoradionecrosis, teeth loss, root can ... | Oral hygiene, management of xerostomia, ... |
| Osteoradionecrosis | Pain, bad breath, dysgeusia, numbness, t ... | Tooth extraction, implant placement, den ... | Fistula, pathologic fractures, local and ... | Debridement, antibiotic treatment and pr ... |
Full Answer
What are the side effects of radiation in the head?
People who get radiation to the head and neck might have side effects such as: Soreness (or even open sores) in the mouth or throat. Dry mouth. Trouble swallowing. Changes in taste. Nausea. Earaches. Tooth decay.
Can a head injury cause numbness in the neck?
Other Causes of Numbness Numbness can also develop after nerve damage, which is a common side effect of head injury. For example, if you injure the trigeminal nerve in your jaw, you will experience numbness in your face. In addition, there are several nerve clusters in your neck that, if compressed, will cause numbness.
What are the effects of radiation on nerve damage?
Nerve damage is a little-known side effect of radiation. Since 2007, this breast cancer survivor has lived with nerve damage, pain, and numbness in her left hand and arm that interfere with all aspects of her daily life. She has trouble dressing, doing up buttons, and putting on earrings. She has trouble using a knife to chop up food.
Why does my head go numb when I Wake Up?
Most of these conditions affect the nerves responsible for sensation in your scalp and head. There are several major nerve clusters connecting your brain with different parts of your face and head. When nerves are inflamed, compressed, or damaged, numbness can occur.
Is Numbness a side effect of radiation therapy?
Damage to the nerves in the shoulder and arm: Radiation to the breast can sometimes damage some of the nerves to the arm. This is called brachial plexopathy and can lead to numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness in the shoulder, arm, and hand.
What are the side effects of radiation to the skull?
Temporary changes to your scalp and behind the ears may gradually occur. These may include redness, dryness, scaling, and itchiness of the treated area. These skin changes usually occur one to two weeks after your treatment begins and may last for one to two weeks after your last treatment.
Can nerve damage from radiation be reversed?
Radiation-induced peripheral neuropathy is a chronic handicap, frightening because progressive and usually irreversible, usually appearing several years after radiotherapy. Its occurrence is rare but increasing with improved long-term cancer survival. The pathophysiological mechanisms are not yet fully understood.
Can you get nerve damage from radiotherapy?
Rarely, radiotherapy may damage nerves in the treated area. This can cause symptoms such as numbness and weakness. These may develop months or years after treatment. In some types of cancer, the body may make substances that damage peripheral nerves.
How long does it take to recover from radiotherapy on the brain?
After treatment finishes, you may continue to feel tired for weeks or months. Radiotherapy to the brain can cause extreme tiredness 4 to 8 weeks after treatment. You may have very little energy, feel drowsy and spend a lot of time sleeping. It gradually gets better over a few weeks.
What are the worst side effects of radiotherapy?
Treatment areas and possible side effectsPart of the body being treatedPossible side effectsHead and NeckFatigue Hair loss Mouth problems Skin changes Taste changes Throat problems, such as trouble swallowing Less active thyroid gland6 more rows•Jan 11, 2022
What promotes nerve healing?
Magnesium promotes the regeneration of the peripheral nerve.
Can radiation cause neurological problems?
Thus, damage due to radiation therapy is more likely. Symptoms of late-delayed radiation damage can include progressively worsening dementia, memory loss, difficulty thinking, personality changes, and unsteadiness in walking. Radiation directed at tumors near the spine may damage the spinal cord itself.
What are the symptoms of nerve damage?
The signs of nerve damageNumbness or tingling in the hands and feet.Feeling like you're wearing a tight glove or sock.Muscle weakness, especially in your arms or legs.Regularly dropping objects that you're holding.Sharp pains in your hands, arms, legs, or feet.A buzzing sensation that feels like a mild electrical shock.
How does radiation therapy affect the brain?
Radiotherapy to the brain can cause short term side effects such as tiredness and sickness. These side effects usually improve a few weeks after treatment. You may also have long term side effects which can continue for a lot longer and sometimes might be permanent.
How long do radiation side effects last?
Often the side effects are worse at the end of treatment, or even a week or two afterwards, because it takes time for the healthy cells to recover from radiation. Most side effects are temporary and go away in time, usually within a few weeks of treatment finishing.
Do tumors grow back after radiation?
Normal cells close to the cancer can also become damaged by radiation, but most recover and go back to working normally. If radiotherapy doesn't kill all of the cancer cells, they will regrow at some point in the future.
If You’Re Getting Radiation Therapy to The Brain
People with brain tumors often get stereotactic radiosurgery (radiation given in one large dose) if the cancer is in only one or a few sites in the...
If You’Re Getting Radiation Therapy to The Head Or Neck
People who get radiation to the head and neck might have side effects such as: 1. Soreness (or even open sores) in the mouth or throat 2. Dry mouth...
If You’Re Getting Radiation Therapy to The Breast
If you have radiation to the breast, it can affect your heart or lungs as well causing other side effects.
If You’Re Getting Radiation Therapy to The Chest
Radiation treatment to the chest may cause side effects such as: 1. Sore throat 2. Swallowing problems 3. Loss of appetite 4. Cough 5. Shortness of...
If You’Re Getting Radiation Therapy to The Abdomen (Belly)
If you are getting radiation to your stomach or some part of the abdomen (belly), you may have side effects such as: 1. Nausea 2. Vomiting 3. Belly...
If You’Re Having Radiation Therapy to The Pelvis
Radiation therapy to the pelvis (for example, as treatment for bladder, ovarian, or prostate cancer) can cause side effects such as: 1. Bladder pro...
How to treat numbness in the head?
For instance, if your head numbness is caused by diabetes, treatment will focus on stabilizing blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and insulin treatments.
How to help numb head?
Certain exercises, including deep breathing, may also help with posture. Alternative treatments such as acupuncture and massage may improve blood circulation and relieve head numbness. You should contact your doctor if your head numbness appears after you start taking medication.
What causes numbness in the head and scalp?
There are several major nerve clusters connecting your brain with different parts of your face and head. When nerves are inflamed, compressed, or damaged, numbness can occur .
What causes numbness in the central nervous system?
Autoimmune disorders. Diabetes can cause permanent nerve damage, called diabetic neuropathy. Numbness is also a common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic condition affecting the central nervous system.
What are the symptoms of numbness in the head?
Symptoms of head numbness. Numbness is often associated with other sensations, such as: tingling. prickling. burning. pins and needles. People who have head numbness may also have difficulty feeling touch or temperature on their scalp or face. Because so many conditions can cause head numbness, many other symptoms can occur at the same time.
What side of the head is numb?
Numbness on one side of your head. Numbness can occur unilaterally on one side of your head. Sometimes, the entire right or left side of your head is affected. In other cases, it’s just one part of the right or left side of the head, such as the temple or the back of your head.
What is the numbness in the head called?
Numbness, sometimes referred to as paresthesia, is common in arms, legs, hands, and feet. It’s less common in your head. Most of the time, head paresthesia isn’t cause for alarm. Read on to find out more about the most common causes of head numbness.
How long does it take for radiation to cause side effects?
Late side effects can take months or even years to develop. They can occur in any normal tissue in the body that has received radiation. The risk of late side effects depends on the area treated as well as the radiation dose that was used. Careful treatment planning can help avoid serious long-term side effects.
How long does it take for radiation to show up in the brain?
Radiation to the brain can also have side effects that show up later – usually from 6 months to many years after treatment ends. These delayed effects can include serious problems such as memory loss, stroke-like symptoms, and poor brain function.
What is the most common drug used for radiation therapy?
The one most commonly used today is amifostine. This drug may be used in people with head and neck cancer to reduce the mouth problems caused by radiation therapy. Not all doctors agree on how these drugs should be used in radiation therapy. These drugs have their own side effects, too, so be sure you understand what to look for.
How long does radiation side effects last?
Remember that the type of radiation side effects you might have depends on the prescribed dose and schedule. Most side effects go away within a few months of ending treatment. Some side effects may continue after treatment ends because it takes time for the healthy cells to recover from radiation. Side effects might limit your ability ...
What is the best treatment for radiation?
One way to reduce side effects is by using radioprotective drugs, but these are only used for certain types of radiation given to certain parts of the body. These drugs are given before radiation treatment to protect certain normal tissues in the treatment area. The one most commonly used today is amifostine. This drug may be used in people with head and neck cancer to reduce the mouth problems caused by radiation therapy.
What are the side effects of brachytherapy?
If your treatment includes brachytherapy (internal radiation implants), you might notice breast tenderness, tightness, redness, and bruising. You may also have some of the same side effects that happen with external radiation treatment.
How to take care of your mouth during radiation?
Here are some tips that may help you manage mouth problems: Avoid spicy and rough foods, such as raw vegetables, dry crackers, and nuts.
What are the side effects of radiosurgery?
Side effects of radiosurgery are usually related to sending high doses of radiation to particular areas of the skull. For instance, if you are treated for an acoustic neuroma (a tumor involving the nerve that controls hearing), you might lose some hearing. Treatment for trigeminal neuralgia can lead to tingling or numbness of the face.
How does radiation affect cancer?
The radiation used to destroy cancer cells can also hurt normal cells in the area that is radiated . Side effects from radiation treatment can vary, depending on the area of the body being treated. Side effects are caused by the cumulative effect of radiation on the cells. This means they develop over time and most patients do not experience any side effects until a few weeks into their treatment. Side effects may be unpleasant, but there are treatments to help deal with them. Most side effects are temporary, disappearing bit by bit after therapy is complete.
How often do radiation oncologists see patients?
Most side effects are temporary, disappearing bit by bit after therapy is complete. Most radiation oncologists see their patients at least once a week while the patient is receiving treatment. This visit with the healthcare team is an opportunity to ask questions, talk about any side effects, and to make a plan to manage side effects. ...
What to do after cancer treatment?
After treatment, talk with your oncology team about receiving a survivorship care plan, which can help you manage the transition to survivorship and learn about life after cancer.
How long does it take for fatigue to go away after radiation?
Talk with your radiation oncologist and health care team about what you can expect from your specific treatment. Fatigue is very common with radiation treatment and tends to begin a few weeks into therapy. Fatigue typically resolves slowly over the weeks and months following treatment.
Can trigeminal neuralgia cause numbness?
Treatment for trigeminal neuralgia can lead to tingling or numbness of the face. Talk to your care team about potential side effects; they will be able to tell you what you might expect in your case.
Can radiation therapy cause memory loss?
Avoid sun exposure, which can worsen the irritation. Some short-term memory loss and difficulty thinking can occur if you are treated with whole-brain radiation therapy. Brain tissue swelling can develop during treatment. You may get a headache or feel pressure in your head if this occurs.
How to get rid of numbness in the head after a head injury?
Look at them, and try to describe how they feel. Once you have gone through all the objects, repeat the exercise with your eyes closed. These exercises will activate your brain’s neuroplasticity and may decrease numbness after a head injury.
How to get numbness out of neck after head injury?
Below are a few of the most effective treatment for numbness caused by nerve damage after head injury: 1. Massage Therapy and Acupuncture. If the pinched nerve is in your neck, massage therapy and manual manipulation can relieve pressure on the nerves, which may restore sensation.
What happens if you injure a nerve in your jaw?
For example, if you injure the trigeminal nerve in your jaw, you will experience numbness in your face. In addition, there are several nerve clusters in your neck that, if compressed, will cause numbness. Other symptoms of nerve damage after head injury include: Non-painful tingling (paresthesia)
What to do if you have numbness after a head injury?
Once you can determine the source of your numbness, you can start appropriate treatment after talking with your physical therapist. Treatment may include sensory retraining, electrical stimulation, massage therapy, and acupuncture.
How to tell if you have nerve damage?
Other symptoms of nerve damage after head injury include: 1 Non-painful tingling (paresthesia) 2 Prickling or “pins and needles” 3 Burning 4 Itching 5 Hypersensitivity to touch (dysesthesia)
How to treat numbness in the nerves?
Treating numbness and other nerve issues requires the use of a TENS unit. These deliver a slightly lower electrical pulse, which allows it to stimulate your nerves without activating your muscles. Therapists may recommend trying TENS first before choosing the other treatments listed above.
How long does numbness last after a brain injury?
Often, the numbness will only last a few months. But some patients, especially severe brain injury survivors, will not recover sensation on their own. Fortunately, there are ways to regain at least some of your sense ...
How to cover your head from radiation?
Wear a wig, head scarf, or hat to cover your head. You may have hair loss on your head if your head or neck receives radiation therapy. Hair loss may be difficult to deal with. Talk to your healthcare provider about where you can get a hairpiece or wig. Get support.
What are the side effects of radiation therapy?
Late side effects of radiation therapy may be permanent. Early and late side effects may include any of the following: Fatigue or loss of energy. Pain in the area of the body that is being treated. Skin changes such as a sunburn or red skin. Hair loss in the area receiving radiation. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or indigestion.
How does radiation affect your mental health?
Radiation therapy can affect your emotional and mental health. Talk to your healthcare provider if you feel angry, scared, helpless, depressed, or frustrated. There are medicines and therapies that can help you manage these side effects. Join a support group or talk to others that have been through radiation therapy.
How to manage radiation side effects?
You can do the following to help get enough nutrition and manage the side effects of radiation: Eat 6 to 8 small meals per day. Eat foods high in protein and calories. Do not eat foods that increase side effects.
How to treat a swollen face?
Use a mild soap and warm water to bathe. Do not use very hot or very cold water on areas of your skin being treated. Do not rub or scratch the area of skin being treated. Wear sunscreen , hats, and clothing to protect your skin when you are outside. Apply lotions, creams, or ointments as directed .
How to treat mouth sores from radiation?
Use medicines as directed to decrease pain caused by mouth sores, and relieve dryness. Do not smoke or use products with nicotine. Drink plenty of liquids as directed. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you . Liquids may prevent dehydration caused by the side effects of radiation.
Can radiation damage healthy tissue?
Radiation can destroy or harm healthy tissues during treatment. This may cause side effects to happen anywhere in the body where radiation therapy is given. Medicine may be given to protect healthy tissue and prevent side effects of radiation therapy.
What are the effects of radiation on the head and neck?
Late Effects After Radiation for Head and Neck Cancer. Side effects from radiation treatment are directly related to the area of the body being treated. Any area in the treatment field has a risk of being damaged, causing side effects. As radiation techniques have improved over the years, the risk of late effects has decreased.
What happens if you have radiation in your ears?
Hearing and Ear Changes. Radiation to the head can damage the cochlea (a part of the inner ear), and/or the ear canal. This can lead to hearing loss, dryness of the ear canal and fluid collection in the inner ear. These problems could result in: A full or clogged ear feeling. Dizziness.
What happens if you get radiation treatment with dry eyes?
Patients with dry eyes from radiation treatment may be at increased risk for infections in the cornea (the front part of the eye). Other possible effects can include: Shrinkage or loss of the eye. Corneal abrasions and ulcers. Glaucoma. Damage to the optic nerve, leading to vision loss or blindness.
What is the scarring of the muscles that make them feel stiff?
Report any changes in swallowing to your provider. You may benefit from being seen by a speech and swallowing specialist. Radiation fibrosis: This is a scarring of muscles that can make the muscles feel stiff or tough. These muscles can have spasms, stiffness, pain and/or become weak.
What is the term for swelling of the face, chin, and neck?
Lymphedema: Swelling of the face, chin and neck area can occur. Notify your provider if you notice swelling. Physical therapy can be used to treat and manage lymphedema. Trismus: This is a chronic contraction of the muscle that controls the opening and closing of the mouth (TMJ).
Why is my head tilted to the side?
Scarring of muscles in the neck can cause the head to be rotated and tilted to the side. Physical therapy, cancer rehabilitation, supportive devices, and certain medications can be very helpful in managing these changes.
Can radiation damage the parotid glands?
Radiation to the head and neck can damage the salivary (parotid) glands. This can lead to: Dry Mouth. Dental problems: be sure to brush twice daily and floss once daily. Have dental exams and cleaning every 6 months and be sure your dentist is aware of your radiation treatment history.
How does chemotherapy affect your body?
When these nerves are damaged, you can have difficulty feeling these sensations correctly. It can lead to tingling, burning or numbness in your hands or feet, usually starting with your toes or fingers and gradually moving toward the centre of your body. It can cause debilitating pain, difficulty feeling hot or cold temperatures and can reduce your motor functioning.
What is the pain in the left hand of a breast cancer survivor?
Since 2007, this breast cancer survivor has lived with nerve damage, pain, and numbness in her left hand and arm that interfere with all aspects of her daily life. She has trouble dressing, doing up buttons, and putting on earrings. She has trouble using a knife to chop up food. She can’t lift heavy items or reach above her head.
Did Charlotte have radiation?
Charlotte says she still would have had radiation treatment s, but she would have liked to be better informed. Because of her breast cancer experience, Charlotte says she’s learned to be more assertive. “If I disagree with something, I don’t put up with it. I’m more self-aware and I take care of myself better.
Acute (Short-Term) Side Effects
- The following list includes some of the most common side effects of radiation therapy for brain tumors. Remember that the treatment can affect each patient differently, and you may not experience these particular side effects. Side effects can also be different depending on your dose and treatment schedule. Talk with your radiation oncologist about what side effects you ca…
Chronic (Long-Term) Side Effects
- The side effects mentioned above tend to occur during or shortly after treatment. Long-term effects can happen months to years after treatment has ended. The risks of long-term effects vary depending on the treatment area, the total dose that is given, and the radiation techniques that were used, as these continue to develop and improve. Though the risk is low, you should be …
Stereotactic Radiosurgery (Srs) Side Effects
- Side effects of radiosurgeryare usually related to sending high doses of radiation to particular areas of the brain. For instance, if you are treated for an acoustic neuroma (a tumor involving the nerve that controls hearing), you might lose some hearing. Treatment for trigeminal neuralgia can lead to tingling or numbness of the face. Talk to your ...