Radiation therapy is one of the most common treatments for cancer, used either alone or in combination with other therapies such as surgery or chemotherapy. For patients and their loved ones, understanding what to expect from radiation therapy can alleviate anxiety and prepare them for the journey ahead. This article explores the basics of radiation therapy, what happens during treatment, common side effects, and tips for managing your recovery.
What Is Radiation Therapy?
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill or damage cancer cells. The most common form, external beam radiation, directs radiation from a machine outside the body toward the cancerous area. Another form, internal radiation (brachytherapy), involves placing a radioactive source inside the body near or within the tumor.
The goal of radiation therapy is to destroy cancer cells while minimizing harm to surrounding healthy tissues. It can be used to:
-
Cure cancer or shrink tumors before surgery (curative therapy)
-
Destroy remaining cancer cells after surgery or chemotherapy (adjuvant therapy)
-
Relieve symptoms caused by advanced cancer (palliative therapy)
Radiation therapy is highly targeted, thanks to advanced imaging and planning technologies that allow doctors to focus the beams precisely on the tumor. Treatments are typically given five days a week for several weeks, depending on the cancer type and location.
Preparing for Treatment
Before starting radiation therapy, you’ll undergo a planning process known as simulation. This involves imaging tests—such as CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans—that help determine the exact location, shape, and size of the tumor. Based on these images, a radiation oncologist designs a personalized treatment plan.
During simulation:
-
You may be asked to lie on a table in the same position you’ll be in during treatment.
-
Custom molds or masks may be created to help keep you still and ensure precision.
-
Tiny permanent marks (tattoos) or temporary markers may be placed on your skin to help align the machine correctly for each session.
Your care team will explain the treatment schedule and answer any questions you have. It’s important to discuss any concerns, including fertility preservation, work or travel plans, and support needs, during this phase.
During Radiation Therapy
Each treatment session typically lasts about 15 to 30 minutes, though the actual delivery of radiation only takes a few minutes. You’ll lie on a table while the radiation machine (called a linear accelerator) moves around you. It won’t touch you, and you won’t feel anything during the radiation itself, although you may hear a buzzing or clicking sound.
Here’s what to expect during your treatment:
-
You’ll be alone in the room: For safety reasons, the radiation technologist will operate the machine from another room, but they can see and communicate with you.
-
You’ll need to remain still: Precision is critical, so staying in the correct position is essential.
-
Daily sessions: Most patients receive treatment five days a week for several weeks. The schedule is designed to give your healthy cells time to recover between sessions.
-
Weekly check-ins: You’ll meet with your radiation oncologist or nurse weekly to monitor your progress and manage any side effects.
Radiation therapy itself is painless. However, the cumulative effects over time can lead to fatigue and skin irritation, which tend to build as treatment progresses.
Common Side Effects and How to Manage Them
Radiation therapy affects not only cancer cells but also some nearby healthy cells, leading to side effects. These vary depending on the part of the body being treated, the dose, and your overall health. Most side effects are temporary and manageable with proper care.
Tips to manage fatigue:
-
Rest when needed but stay active with light exercises like walking.
-
Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated.
-
Ask for help with daily tasks to conserve energy.
Skin care suggestions:
-
Use only recommended soaps and lotions—avoid fragranced or alcohol-based products.
-
Wear loose-fitting, soft clothing.
-
Protect your skin from the sun and extreme temperatures.
-
Head/neck: Dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, changes in taste
-
Chest/breast: Soreness, cough, shortness of breath
-
Abdomen/pelvis: Nausea, diarrhea, bladder irritation
Your healthcare team will provide medication or supportive therapies to relieve these symptoms as needed.
Life After Radiation Therapy
When your treatment ends, you’ll have a follow-up care plan that includes regular checkups and scans to monitor your health. Side effects typically improve over time, though some may linger for months. It’s also possible to experience late effects—symptoms that appear months or years later—so long-term monitoring is essential.
Here’s how to support your recovery:
-
Attend all follow-up visits: Your doctor will check for treatment effectiveness and signs of recurrence.
-
Communicate openly: Report any lingering or new symptoms right away.
-
Practice self-care: Eat well, exercise moderately, and get enough sleep.
-
Seek support: Talk to a counselor or join a support group if you’re struggling emotionally. Cancers treatment can be mentally taxing, and you’re not alone.
Radiation therapy may leave you physically tired but emotionally stronger. Many patients find that completing treatment is an empowering milestone on the road to recovery.
In conclusion, radiation therapy is a vital part of cancer treatment that has helped millions of people manage or overcome the disease. Knowing what to expect—before, during, and after treatment—can help you feel more in control and better equipped to handle the journey ahead. Stay informed, communicate with your care team, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
