Most people start to feel tired after a few weeks of radiation therapy. This happens because radiation treatments destroy some healthy cells as well as the cancer cells. Fatigue usually gets worse as treatment goes on. Stress from being sick and daily trips for treatment can make fatigue worse.
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Why do I Feel So Tired after radiation therapy?
Jun 18, 2019 · Radiation therapy will likely result in tiredness that progressively grows worse. However, the tiredness associated with treatment coincides with the positive results of radiotherapy—cancer cell destruction.
What are the early and late effects of radiation therapy?
The most common early side effects are fatigue (feeling tired) and skin changes. Other early side effects usually are related to the area being treated, such as hair loss and mouth problems when radiation treatment is given to this area. Late side effects …
Is it normal to sleep a lot after radiation therapy?
Aug 31, 2013 · Not having the proper amount of nutrition is the reason for 40% of radiation fatigue. 1 Talk with your healthcare provider or nutritionist about the right amount of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and carbohydrates that are best for you. Stay hydrated. Dehydration is a common cause of fatigue.
How does radiation treatment affect the people around me?
Fatigue. Hair loss. Nausea and vomiting. Skin changes. Urinary and bladder problems. Healthy cells that are damaged during radiation treatment usually recover within a few months after treatment is over. But sometimes people may have side effects that do not improve. Other side effects may show up months or years after radiation therapy is over.
Is anger a side effect of radiation?
Does radiation give you mood swings?
Is it normal for cancer patients to get angry?
How long after radiation Do you feel normal?
Can radiation cause mental health issues?
How do you cope with radiation side effects?
- Get enough sleep during radiation therapy. ...
- Treat skin exposed to radiation with TLC. ...
- Maintain a well-balanced diet. ...
- Commit to physical activity. ...
- Get the support you need.
Can cancer treatment cause personality changes?
How do I stop being angry and hurt?
How do you help an angry person with cancer?
- Listen to what your loved one is really saying. ...
- Remember that it's not your fault. ...
- Be an advocate for your loved one. ...
- Make sure the patient's physical needs are being adequately met.
What is the most common acute side effect of radiation treatment?
What should I avoid after radiation?
What are the worst side effects of radiotherapy?
| Part of the body being treated | Possible side effects |
|---|---|
| Brain | Fatigue Hair loss Memory or concentration problems Nausea and vomiting Skin changes Headache Blurry vision |
| Breast | Fatigue Hair loss Skin changes Swelling (edema) Tenderness |
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...
What Are The Side Effects of Radiation Therapy?
The side effects of radiation therapy depend on the area of the body that receives radiation. Early side effects happen shortly after you receive r...
What Causes The Side Effects of Radiation Therapy?
Radiation can destroy or harm healthy tissues during treatment. This may cause side effects to happen anywhere in the body where radiation therapy...
How Are Side Effects of Radiation Therapy Diagnosed and Treated?
1. Your healthcare provider will ask you about your symptoms and decide if they are side effects of radiation therapy. Radiation therapy may preven...
How Can I Manage My Symptoms?
1. Manage your fatigue. Do short periods of physical activity to help decrease fatigue. Walk for 15 to 30 minutes each day. You can also take a sho...
Where Can I Find More Information?
1. 1. American Cancer Society250 Williams StreetAtlanta , GA 30303Phone: 1- 800 - 227-2345Web Address: http://www.cancer.org 2. 1. National Cancer...
When Should I Seek Immediate Care?
1. Your heart feels like it is beating faster than usual or you have shortness of breath. 2. You have a headache, dizziness, or blurred vision. 3....
When Should I Contact My Healthcare Provider?
1. You have a fever. 2. The area of your skin where you received treatment blisters, peels, becomes more painful, or drains fluid. 3. You have trou...
Does radiation therapy have side effects?
It's very important to remember that every person reacts differently to treatment. Any side effect you might have depends on the type and location of cancer, the dose of radiation being given, and your general health. Some people have few or no side effects, while others have quite a few.
How to reduce side effects of 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.
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 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 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.
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.
What does it mean when your skin is red after radiation?
After a few weeks, your skin might become dry, flaky, or itchy, or it may peel. This is sometimes called radiation dermatitis. It’s important to let your cancer care team know about any skin changes.
What are the side effects of radiation therapy?
Things like nausea, diarrhea, and hair loss usually catch a person's attention first because they seem to be the worst. While these are side effects that can be difficult to tolerate, ...
How do you know if you are tired after radiation?
Feeling tired or lethargic throughout the day . Exhaustion (this feeling lasts longer than being tired, is more intense and isn't relieved by rest). Reduced energy.
How to get over cancer?
Friends and family are usually happy to help—allow them to do so. Get enough sleep. Getting a good night's rest is essential for everyone, not just people with cancer.
How to help someone with cancer?
Friends and family are usually happy to help—allow them to do so. Get enough sleep. Getting a good night's rest is essential for everyone, not just people with cancer. If you have trouble sleeping at night, try to limit how often or how long you are napping during the day.
Does caffeine help with cancer?
They are loaded with sugar and caffeine, which may give you a boost, but not enough to last the day. Like other caffeinated beverages, they may increase fatigue after you come down from the caffeine/sugar rush. Exercise when you feel you can. Studies show that exercise can increase energy in people with cancer.
Can radiation cause fatigue?
The degree of fatigue generally varies depending on the amount of tissue irradiated, as well as the location. 2 . But radiation therapy may not be the sole culprit of fatigue: it can be a result of cancer itself or the mental stress associated with being a cancer patient. Certain medications, such as those to prevent and treat nausea, ...
What happens if you sleep too much?
Too much sleep can result in more fatigue and restless nighttime sleeping. Rest when you need it. If you begin to feel tired, stop and take a few moments to rest to recharge your batteries. Resting can mean taking a short power nap or just sitting in a relaxing place and taking time out for yourself.
Can radiation cause fatigue?
Damage to healthy cells can cause side effects. Many people who get radiation therapy have fatigue. Fatigue is feeling exhausted and worn out. It can happen all at once or come on slowly. People feel fatigue in different ways and you may feel more or less fatigue than someone else who is getting the same amount of radiation therapy to ...
Does radiation therapy cause cancer?
Radiation Therapy Side Effects. Radiation not only kills or slows the growth of cancer cells, it can also affect nearby healthy cells. Damage to healthy cells can cause side effects. Many people who get radiation therapy have fatigue. Fatigue is feeling exhausted and worn out.
How long does it take for a person to recover from radiation?
Skin changes. Urinary and bladder changes. Healthy cells that are damaged during radiation treatment usually recover within a few months after treatment is over. But sometimes people may have side effects that do not improve. Other side effects may show up months or years after radiation therapy is over.
Does radiation kill cancer cells?
Radiation not only kills or slows the growth of cancer cells, it can also affect nearby healthy cells. Damage to healthy cells can cause side effects. Many people who get radiation therapy have fatigue. Fatigue is feeling exhausted and worn out. It can happen all at once or come on slowly.
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 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.
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.
Does radiation cause low blood count?
Radiation therapy may prevent the bone marrow from making red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This may cause low blood counts. Low blood counts are diagnosed with a blood test. Treatment depends on what area of the body is affected.
How to reduce fatigue?
Do short periods of physical activity to help decrease fatigue. Walk for 15 to 30 minutes each day. You can also take a short bike ride or ride an exercise bike. Take short naps throughout the day. Do not sleep for more than 1 hour at a time during the day.
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 get rid of sores in mouth?
Use a soft toothbrush to brush your teeth. Use an oral rinse several times each day as directed. Your healthcare provider may tell you to rinse with a mix of baking soda and salt. Use medicines as directed to decrease pain caused by mouth sores, and relieve dryness.
Can radiation cause hair fall out?
Radiation often causes the hair in the field of treatment to fall out. This is often temporary, though for some it may become permanent. If your treatment is to your head, use a mild shampoo, such as baby shampoo, and try not to shampoo every day.
How to prevent skin damage from sun exposure?
Practice sun safety as exposure the sun can cause more skin damage. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day (including the treatment area). Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves, pants and a hat when outdoors. Avoid the sun during peak hours (10am to 2pm).
How to treat a swollen ear?
Be extra kind to the skin in the area being treated. 1 The skin in the treatment area will be more sensitive and can be harmed more easily. 2 Keep your skin clean and dry. 3 Wash skin in the treatment area with lukewarm (not hot) water and a mild soap, such as Dove®, Neutrogena, or a baby soap. Avoid rubbing with a washcloth or bath scrubbies/sponges. Use the palm of your hand to gently wash the skin in the treatment area. 4 Dry skin gently. Pat, don't rub, using a soft towel. 5 Moisturizing the skin can be helpful to reduce itching and soften the skin, making you more comfortable. Talk with your radiation team about which moisturizer you should use. 6 Do not use make up or cosmetics in the treatment area. 7 Do not use skin products that contain scents or perfumes. 8 Radiation often causes the hair in the field of treatment to fall out. This is often temporary, though for some it may become permanent. 9 If your treatment is to your head, use a mild shampoo, such as baby shampoo, and try not to shampoo every day. In addition, do not use hot curlers or a curling/flat iron, and be gentle when combing or brushing hair. 10 Wear loose fitting, soft clothing over the treatment area. 11 Use gentle detergents, such as Woolite®, Ivory Snow®, Dreft®, or Eucalan® to wash your clothes. 12 Avoid starching the clothes you wear over the treatment area.
How to get rid of a swollen swollen swollen swollen
Avoid rubbing with a washcloth or bath scrubbies/sponges. Use the palm of your hand to gently wash the skin in the treatment area. Dry skin gently.
How to get rid of itching on face?
Avoid rubbing with a washcloth or bath scrubbies/sponges. Use the palm of your hand to gently wash the skin in the treatment area. Dry skin gently. Pat, don't rub, using a soft towel. Moisturizing the skin can be helpful to reduce itching and soften the skin, making you more comfortable.
How to avoid scratching skin?
Avoid anything that could cause injury to the skin in the area being treated: Do not scratch your skin. Avoid using adhesive tape in the treatment area. If bandaging is necessary, use paper tape. Try to apply the tape outside of the treatment area. Use an electric razor if you must shave in the treatment area.
Can you use baby shampoo on your head?
This is often temporary, though for some it may become permanent. If your treatment is to your head, use a mild shampoo, such as baby shampoo, and try not to shampoo every day. In addition, do not use hot curlers or a curling/flat iron, and be gentle when combing or brushing hair.
Is radiation therapy outside the body?
External radiation therapy is given from an outside source, involves a beam of radiation aimed at a part of the body, and affects cells in your body only for a moment. Because there’s no radiation source inside your body, you are not radioactive at any time during or after treatment.
How to get rid of radiation?
Here are examples of things you might be told to do if you're getting systemic radiation treatment: 1 Wash your laundry separately from the rest of the household, including towels and sheets. 2 Sit down when using the toilet (both men and women) to avoid splashing of body waste. 3 Flush the toilet twice after each use, and wash your hands well after using the toilet. 4 Use separate utensils and towels. 5 Drink extra fluids to flush the radioactive material out of your body. 6 No kissing or sexual contact (often for at least a week). 7 Keep a distance away from others in your household. For example, you might be told to keep one arm’s length, or maybe six feet, between yourself and others for a specific length of time. You might also be told to sleep in a separate bed in a separate room for a specific number of nights. This depends on the type of treatment you receive. 8 Avoid contact with infants, children, and women who are pregnant for a specific amount of time. 9 Avoid contact with pets for a specific amount of time. 10 Avoid public transportation for a specific amount of time. 11 Plan to stay home from work, school, and other activities for a specific amount of time.
What does ALARA stand for in radiation?
General radiation safety. A common abbreviation used by doctors and radiation experts is ALARA. ALARA stands for “as low as reasonably achievable.”. This means that people should limit being exposed to radiation that has no benefit to them.
What is external beam radiation?
External radiation therapy is given from an outside source, involves a beam of radiation aimed at a part of the body, and affects cells in your body only for a moment. Because there’s no radiation source inside your body, you are not radioactive at any time during or after treatment.
What is internal radiation therapy?
Internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy) Internal radiation therapy uses a sealed source of radiation that is implanted (put inside your body) where the cancer is located. Depending on the type of implant used, your body may give off a small amount of radiation for a short time.
How long does radiation stay in your system?
Because of this, some radiation will be in your body for a few days until your body has had a chance to get rid of it.
How to get rid of radioactive waste?
Sit down when using the toilet (both men and women) to avoid splashing of body waste. Flush the toilet twice after each use, and wash your hands well after using the toilet. Use separate utensils and towels. Drink extra fluids to flush the radioactive material out of your body.
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.
Can radiation cause pain?
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 are some ways to help with cancer pain?
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. Be sure to discuss these complementary or alternative treatments with your doctor or nurse.
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.
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.
