After each treatment, apply a cool compress to the treated area. This will help reduce the swelling and redness that may result. Do be sure anything you apply to the skin is clean and free of bacteria (to reduce the risk of infection). Also, don’t use extreme cold.
Full Answer
What should I do after radiation therapy?
Continue to give your skin extra protection from sunlight, even after radiation therapy ends. Use only lukewarm water and mild soap. Just let water run over the treated area. Do not rub. Also be careful not to rub away the ink marks needed for your radiation therapy until it’s done. Check with your cancer care team before shaving the treated area.
How should I take care of my mouth after radiation therapy?
If you get radiation therapy to the head or neck, you need to take good care of your teeth, gums, mouth, and throat. Here are some tips that may help you manage mouth problems: Avoid spicy and rough foods, such as raw vegetables, dry crackers, and nuts.
How can I reduce the risk of side effects of radiation?
You can reduce the risk of side effects by following these tips: Wash the treated skin gently every day with warm water. Washing helps remove bacteria from your skin, which can cause an infection. Be very gentle when washing your skin in the area that’s receiving radiation therapy.
How can I prevent skin cancer after radiation treatment?
Protect the treated area from the sun. 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 happens if a cancer patient gets a cold?
Because treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy weaken the immune system, if a cancer patient contracts influenza or the common cold, there is a higher risk of serious health complications and infection.
How long is your immune system compromised after radiation?
It can take months for the immune system to rebound after chemo and radiation. The specific drug(s) can make a difference in recovery time.
How do you get rid of mucus after radiation?
Your nurse or doctor may prescribe nebuliser. This is a small machine that changes liquid medicine into a fine mist or spray, to help to loosen the mucus. If your sleep is disturbed by coughing, using a nebuliser before bed may help. Changes in your saliva may get better within about 8 weeks of radiotherapy ending.
What can a cancer patient take for a cold?
Symptoms of the common cold may be treated with an antihistamine, decongestant or Tylenol®. Some newer antiviral drugs may reduce the duration and/or severity of symptoms from the common cold. However, the best treatment is often rest and time so that your immune system can eradicate the infection.
Does radiation weaken immune system?
Radiation therapy can potentially affect your immune system, especially if a significant amount of bone marrow is being irradiated because of its role in creating white blood cells. However, this doesn't typically suppress the immune system enough to make you more susceptible to infections.
Does radiation stay in your body forever?
The radiation stays in the body for anywhere from a few minutes to a few days. Most people receive internal radiation therapy for just a few minutes. Sometimes, internal radiation therapy can be given for more time. If so, they stay in a private room to limit other people's exposure to radiation.
Is a cough a side effect of radiation?
You may develop a dry cough. The amount of sputum, or mucus, in your cough may increase as your radiation treatment progresses. Difficulty swallowing is another common side effect of radiation therapy to the chest. You may feel as if you have a “lump” in your throat or a feeling of food getting stuck.
What helps with sore throat from radiation?
Radiotherapy for cancer in the head or neck area can cause swelling and soreness in the throat....Your doctor or nurse might prescribe medicines to reduce the soreness, including:painkillers - taking these half an hour before eating can help.liquid medicines.aspirin gargles.anti thrush medicines.
How long does it take your throat to heal after radiation?
Your Throat You may notice throat changes in 2–3 weeks after starting radiation. These will likely get better 4–6 weeks after you have finished treatment.
What helps a cancer patient with a cough?
People with cancer may also develop a cough related to cancer or its treatment....Medications commonly used to treat or manage a cough include:Mucus-loosening expectorants, such as guaifenesin.Cough suppressants, such as benzonatate, codeine, and dextromethorphan.Decongestants.Antihistamines.
What vitamins are good for radiation treatment?
Some supplements, especially antioxidants, may change how radiation therapy works. Antioxidants include vitamins A, C, E, beta-carotene, and selenium, among others. Many people take antioxidants during treatment hoping they can protect normal tissues from treatment side effects.
Do cancer patients get sick easily?
People with cancer may have a higher risk of infection because of changes in the immune system that control their body's defense systems. Cancer and cancer treatments can affect the immune system and other body systems in different ways.
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 help with fatigue during radiation?
Commit to physical activity. For patients that are up for it and are already physically active, exercising during radiation therapy can help with fatigue, mood issues and stress management. Even going for a walk for a few minutes can help. We generally do not recommend starting a new rigorous training program during radiation.
What to avoid when treating oncology?
Avoid using powders, perfumes, lotions, aluminum deodorants and products containing alcohol in the treatment area unless approved by your oncology nurse. Avoid putting anything hot (heating pads) or cold (ice packs) directly on the treated skin. If you spend time outdoors, wear a hat or clothing to protect your skin.
What happens if you get radiation on your skin?
The skin in the area where you’re receiving radiation therapy may become red and sensitive, similar to a sunburn. Your radiation oncology nurse will review specific instructions for caring for your skin with you, so it’s important to take note. Some of the things your nurse will tell you include:
How to cope with insomnia during cancer treatment?
But simple strategies, such as practicing a nighttime ritual, writing down your worries and avoiding naps, can help you cope with insomnia during treatment.
What to talk about when you have cancer?
Get the support you need. During your cancer diagnosis and treatment, you’re likely to experience an array of emotions, including anxiety, depression, fear or hopeless. It may help to talk about your feelings with a close friend, family member, chaplain or other spiritual leader, nurse, social work counselor or psychologist. ...
Can radiation help you lose weight?
It’s also important to remember that radiation therapy is not the time to start a weight loss program. If you’re an MD Anderson patient, ask your doctor for a referral to one of our dietitians. With their help, you make sure you’re eating the right foods and getting the vitamins and minerals you need.
Can radiation therapy cause side effects?
Radiation therapy side effects: 5 tips to cope. Like many types of cancer treatment, radiation therapy can cause side effects and have a profound impact on patients. Many of my patients suffer from lack of sleep, malnutrition, fatigue and skin irritation, and some aren’t quite sure how to cope. The good news is that there are some things you can do ...
How Does Chemotherapy Increase the Risk of Colds and Flu?
Chemotherapy weakens the immune system, making people who are undergoing treatment more susceptible to colds, the flu, or other infections.
Colds and Chemotherapy
When you are receiving chemotherapy, it's important to be on the lookout for symptoms of an infection—even a simple cold. 3
The Flu and Chemotherapy
You might also be more likely to catch the flu when you are receiving chemo. The signs and symptoms of the flu can include:
Managing an Infection
A cold or flu infection can be serious if you are having chemotherapy. Treating a cold, the flu, or another infection is different for people receiving chemo because they cannot take certain medications.
Preventing Colds, Flu, and Infections
If you are undergoing cancer treatments, there are steps you can take to prevent colds, the flu, and other infections. 6
Summary
People who are going through chemotherapy treatments for cancer are more susceptible to getting infections. They are also more likely to have severe adverse effects if they become sick with a cold, the flu, or another infection.
A Word From Verywell
Getting an infection, even a simple cold, while you are undergoing chemotherapy can be life-threatening. The best way to protect yourself is by taking preventive measures. If you notice any signs of an infection while you are undergoing chemotherapy, call your doctor right away.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 ...
How long does it take for side effects to show up after radiation?
Some side effects might show up quickly, but others might not show up until 1 to 2 years after treatment. Talk with your radiation oncologist about what to watch for and when to call your doctor. If the cancer is in many areas, sometimes the whole brain is treated with radiation.
How long does radiation treatment last?
What Happens During Radiation. The treatment is normally Monday through Friday and lasts about 45 minutes. A lot of time is spent getting your body in the right position, so the radiation hits its desired locations. You lay down on a custom-molded table. A technician positions your body using lasers and measurements.
How long does it take for radiation to hit your body?
This may seem scary, but this ensures the radiation does not hit healthy areas. The radiation takes a couple of minutes. You can sense when the radiation hits your body if you receive radiation to your brain.
Does radiation cause hair loss?
Radiation to your brain causes hair loss, but over time it grows back. As your hair grows again, so will you. Remember, during and after radiation treatment, listen to your body, ask questions, acknowledge side effects and adjust.
What to do if you can't get relief from cancer?
Because fear and worry can make pain worse, you may find that relaxation exercises are helpful. Other methods such as hypnosis, biofeedback, and acupuncture may be useful for some cancer pain.
What is the follow up care for radiation oncologist?
Follow-up care might include more cancer treatment, rehabilitation, and counseling.
Why do doctors check radiation?
These checkups are necessary to deal with radiation side effects and to detect any signs of recurrent disease. During these checkups your doctor will examine you and may order some lab tests ...
How long after radiation treatment can you have skin problems?
For instance, you may have skin problems for several weeks after your treatments end. Continue to be gentle with skin in the treatment area until all signs of irritation are gone.
What can a nurse do after a skin treatment?
You may find that you still need extra rest after your therapy is over while your healthy tissues are recovering and rebuilding .
Is radiation therapy painful?
Radiation therapy is not painful. However, some radiation side effects may cause discomfort. In addition, when radiation is used for palliation, some discomfort or pain may remain. Sometimes patients need help to manage cancer pain. Over-the-counter pain medicine may be enough for mild pain.
What to do if you have a rash after radiation?
Watch your treated skin for signs of change. After treatment, it’s important to pay close attention to the skin that was treated with radiation therapy. If you see redness, a rash, or any other change, call your oncologist or dermatologist.
How to reduce side effects of radiation?
You can reduce the risk of side effects by following these tips: Wash the treated skin gently every day with warm water. Washing helps remove bacteria from your skin, which can cause an infection.
How to avoid skin irritation from radiation?
To avoid irritating your skin, skip the washclothes, sponges, and loofahs. Instead, use your hands to gently splash water on the treated skin.
How to protect skin from radiation?
During radiation therapy: Be gentle and protect your skin. You want to start doing the following on the day you begin radiation therapy and continue until you’ve stopped radiation and your skin feels normal. Bathing and shaving: Skin can become very sensitive during radiation therapy.
How long after radiation treatment do you have side effects?
Some side effects occur weeks, months, or years after your last radiation treatment. This can happen even if you had no side effects during treatment. To catch these side effects early, dermatologists recommend the following: Watch your treated skin for signs of change.
What to do if you don't remember sunscreen?
Your care team will recommend skin care products that you can use, including sunscreen. If you don’t remember getting a recommendation for sunscreen, ask someone on your care team which sunscreen you should use. Seek shade when outdoors.
Can you put hot or cold on your skin?
Spending time at home: Until therapy is over and your skin feels normal, dermatologists recommend the following: Don’t put anything hot or cold on your treated skin. A heating pad or ice pack may seem like a good idea, but anything that’s hot or cold can irritate your skin. Protect your treated skin while doing chores.
How does radiation affect the bladder?
Just like radiation harms cells in your bones, it also affects the cells in your bowel and bladder. You might experience blood in your urine, reduced bladder control, sexual dysfunction, and interruptions to your daily routine.
Can radiation cause burns?
The concentrated exposure of X-rays during radiation therapy often causes painful burns across the skin. As X-rays pass through the skin, they produce dangerous free radicals that damage DNA, injure skin tissue, and trigger inflammation. This side effect is so common that about 85% of radiation patients experience moderate to severe burns during and after treatment
Does radiation weaken bones?
Radiation is so potent that it can weaken the bones and cause osteoporosis and osteonecrosis. Since bones are living and growing organisms, radiation harms their active cells and stunts their strength. The ribs in your chest or bones in your leg may become far more vulnerable to fractures and breaks.
What to expect when getting radiation therapy?
What to Expect When Having Radiation Therapy. It is normal to feel worried or overwhelmed when you learn that you will need radiation therapy. However, learning more about this type of cancer treatment may help you feel more prepared and comfortable.
How long does it take for radiation to go away?
The 2-day break in treatment each week allows your body some time to repair this damage. Some of the effects may not go away until the treatment period is completed. Let the health care professionals if you are experiencing side effects. Read more about the side effects of radiation therapy.
What type of doctor is responsible for radiation therapy?
Radiation oncologist. This type of doctor specializes in giving radiation therapy to treat cancer. A radiation oncologist oversees radiation therapy treatments. They work closely with other team members to develop the treatment plan. Radiation oncology nurse.
What is simulation in radiation therapy?
Simulating and planning treatment. Your first radiation therapy session is a simulation. This means it is a practice run without giving radiation therapy. Your team will use imaging scans to identify the tumor location.
How long does radiation therapy last?
It is the most common radiation therapy treatment for cancer. Each session is quick, lasting about 15 minutes. Radiation does not hurt, sting, or burn when it enters the body.
Why is it important to be in the same position for radiation?
It is important for your body to be in the same position for each treatment. Your radiation oncology team cares about your comfort. Talk with the team to find a comfortable position that you can be in every time you come in for radiation therapy.
How often should you check for radiation?
During your treatment, your radiation oncologist will check how well it is working. Typically, this will happen at least once a week. If needed, they may adjust your treatment plan.
How Does Radiation Affect Skin Recovery?
Doctors use high-energy radiation to shrink or kill cancer cells. Radiation is often part of the treatment plan for many types of cancer, including lung, breast, prostate, and lymphoma. It is usually administered from a machine outside the body via radiation beams or x-rays.
Possible Skin Changes from Radiation
Not everyone will experience skin-related side effects of radiation therapy, but many people will. The most common reaction is called radiation dermatitis, which includes these symptoms:
7 Tips to Improve Skin Recovery During and After Radiation
It’s important to both protect and treat your skin during and after your radiation therapy to create the best results. We suggest the following steps.
Finding Premiere Experts and Care
What Happens During Radiation
- The treatment is normally Monday through Friday and lasts about 45 minutes. A lot of time is spent getting your body in the right position, so the radiation hits its desired locations. You lay down on a custom-molded table. A technician positions your body using lasers and measurements. When you are aligned, a mouthguard and wired head case are pla...
What Happens After Radiation
- Radiation side effects are different for each person. You may be able to exercise or perform your ‘normal’ activities. Or you may not. Side effects also tend to get worse as more treatments are given. I lost my hair, experienced a great deal of fatigue and nausea, and skin dryness on treated areas. When these changes happen, acknowledge your side effects and react. No one expects y…
Advice For Others
- After four surgeries and multiple radiation treatments, I live with neuropathy in my feet, nerve damage to my legs, and drop foot on my right foot. I also have radiation retinopathy in my eyes. I go to rehab regularly and receive shots in my eyes to help my vision and reduce swelling. Going through cancer for so long, you have to live through every single hard day to put things into pers…