What's the best ointment for radiation therapy?
The researchers studied an over-the-counter petroleum-based ointment named Aquaphor that often is recommended to radiation therapy patients, as well as a prescription-only product called silver sulfadiazine cream.
Can you use skin creams during radiation therapy?
Study: Skin Creams May Be OK During Radiation. "Patients are routinely advised not to apply anything on the skin prior to treatment," explained radiation oncologist Dr. Lucille Lee, of Northwell Health Cancer Institute in Lake Success, N.Y.
What medications are used to treat bladder irritation after radiation therapy?
Tamsulosin (Flomax), terazosin (Hytrin), and other alpha-blockers are typically instituted in all men following radiation therapy for at least a few weeks, and are gradually withdrawn as symptoms improve. Anticholinergic medications like tolterodine (Detrol) or solifenacin (Vesicare) can help treat bladder irritation symptoms as well.
Is it safe to apply topical ointment before radiotherapy?
Contrary to popular belief, the results of this research suggest that topical creams and ointments can be safely applied before radiotherapy. However, patients should avoid applying a very thick layer just before radiotherapy.”
How do you treat skin irritation from radiation?
Here are some ways you can protect your skin and ease your radiation burn symptoms:Wash your irritated skin with mild soap and lukewarm water.Don't rub or scratch your irritated skin.Don't use heating pads or ice on your treatment area.Use moisturizing cream as directed.More items...•
What cream can I use during radiotherapy?
Moisturising cream which is free of sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) should be gently applied to the area. Appropriate dressings and products should be used on broken skin to reduce further trauma or infection. Suitable products should be non-adhesive or silicone low adhesive.
Is cortisone cream good for radiation burns?
Topical corticosteroids have been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect in the treatment of many skin diseases and are commonly prescribed during a course of radiation treatment.
What helps with skin pain after radiotherapy?
Use soothing creams or salves: For mild irritation, itching and burning, you can apply an aloe vera preparation. Or try an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. Spread the cream thinly over the affected area 3 times per day but not 1 hour prior to treatment.
Can I use Neosporin on radiation burns?
After the affected area has air dried, apply a thin layer of the antibiotic ointment (for example, Bacitracin or Neosporin). Or apply a moisturizer. Apply Aquaphor ointment to the entire treatment area only if antibiotic ointment was not used.
Is Vaseline good for radiation burns?
Avoid oil/petroleum based products (e.g., creams, ointments, lotions, Vaseline®). Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Apply sun blocking lotion to radiation treated areas and wear protective clothing. Keep area dry and exposed to air when possible.
Is coconut oil good for radiation burns?
Both patients and allied health care providers involved in the care of patients following radiation treatment for head and neck cancer have attested to the beneficial effects of coconut oil.
How long does skin irritation last after radiation?
Skin reactions don't develop straight away but gradually throughout your course of radiotherapy. Your radiographer looks out for these reactions. But you should also let them know if you feel any soreness. Skin reactions usually settle down 2 to 4 weeks after your treatment ends.