How to Prepare for Radiation Therapy for Cancer
What to expect, tips to cope and managing side effects
What to expect, tips to cope and managing side effects
If you are preparing for radiation therapy for cancer treatment, it is normal to feel worried or anxious. These feelings are common and understandable. You may still be coping with your cancer diagnosis. You might not know what to expect from this treatment.
However, understanding what will happen – and how advanced the technology is – can help ease your fears. Today’s radiation therapy is faster, safer and more precise. It also has less risk to healthy tissue.
“Radiation therapy has significantly improved over the years,” says Ray Lin, MD, a radiation oncologist at Scripps Clinic and the radiation oncology program director at Scripps Cancer Center. “Today’s treatments are quicker and more precise. They also carry fewer side effects, making them safer and better for patients.”
What is radiation therapy and how does it work?
Radiation therapy is a common and effective treatment for many types of cancer. It is usually done as an outpatient procedure, so you can go home on the same day.
This treatment uses high-energy rays, such as X-rays, to damage the DNA inside cancer cells. By targeting their genetic material, radiation prevents cancer cells from growing, dividing and spreading.
Radiation therapy can shrink tumors, relieve symptoms like swelling or pain, and sometimes even cure certain cancers. More than half of cancer patients will receive radiation therapy during their treatment. It can be used alone or with other treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy or immunotherapy.
Types of radiation therapy
There are different types of radiation therapy. The best choice depends on the type of cancer, its stage and your health.
Your care team will develop a treatment plan just for you. They will recommend the radiation therapy that offers the best results with the least side effects.
External-beam radiation is the most common method. It uses a machine called a linear accelerator to direct radiation to a specific part of the body.
Internal radiation (brachytherapy) involves placing radioactive materials inside the body near the tumor to kill cancer cells.
Systemic radiation uses radioactive substances that travel through the bloodstream to attack cancer cells.
Preparing for radiation therapy: What to expect
Knowing what to expect before treatment can reduce anxiety. It also makes the process easier to manage. Here’s how to prepare for radiation therapy:
Initial consultation
Your first step is to meet with your radiation oncologist. During this visit, you will review your cancer diagnosis and discuss treatment options. Together, you will create a personalized radiation therapy plan. A physical exam may be done to gather more details for planning.
Simulation and planning
Before treatment starts, you will have a planning session called a simulation. This step helps your care team determine the safest and most precise way to deliver radiation.
“Simulation helps us map the exact area to be treated, so we can target the radiation as precisely and safely as possible,” Dr. Lin says.
A special CT scan (computed tomography) will be taken to create high-resolution images of the treatment area. Your team will use these images to locate the tumor and develop a plan to direct radiation beams from different angles.
“Modern radiation therapy allows us to target tumors with much greater precision,” says Dr. Lin. “Advanced imaging helps us see the tumor more clearly on the computer. This allows us to aim the beams to treat the cancer more effectively. We can also reduce exposure to healthy tissue.”
To ensure accurate treatment, you may get an immobilization device. This could be cushions, a mold or a mask. These devices help you stay still during each session.
Your team will use planning software and imaging technology to customize your treatment plan. This plan outlines the radiation dose, schedule and exact treatment areas. It helps protect healthy tissue while effectively treating cancer.
Daily treatment sessions
Radiation treatment usually happens five days a week for several weeks. Each session lasts about 15 to 30 minutes, but the radiation itself only takes a few minutes.
At each visit, you will start by checking in. If needed, you will change into a gown. A radiation therapist will help you get in the right position on the treatment table.
During the session, you might see red lights or hear sounds from the machine. This is normal and shows the machine is working. The treatment is painless, but some patients may feel warmth. This depends on the type and location of the cancer being treated.
To get ready for your session, eat a light, healthy meal a few hours ahead. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Do not use any skin products on the treatment area. Wear loose and comfortable clothes to your appointment.
It’s best to limit alcohol and caffeine. Try to get a full night’s sleep the night before. If needed, set up transportation to your appointments.
Using relaxation techniques, like deep breathing or meditation, can help with anxiety. Avoid smoking and follow all instructions from your care team for the best results.
Side effects: What you should know
Radiation therapy targets cancer cells, but it can also affect nearby healthy tissues, which may lead to side effects. That’s why doctors plan each treatment carefully to ensure it is both effective and safe. “It’s not just about treating the disease,” says Dr. Lin. “Doctors also care about side effects and long-term health.”
The type and severity of side effects depend on several factors. These include the treatment area, the dose, the schedule and overall health. Most side effects happen during or just after therapy. They usually go away within a few weeks.
Many patients can keep working, going to school and following their normal routines while getting treatment. Your care team will help you with any changes you may need to make.
Managing common side effects
Fatigue is the most common side effect. Managing it often involves getting enough rest and pacing your activities.
Skin changes, such as redness, dryness or itching, may occur. Fragrance-free moisturizers can help soothe irritation.
Hair loss typically affects treated areas, but support resources are available to manage this change.
If you are getting radiation to your head or neck, you may find it hard to swallow. Eating soft foods and drinking plenty of water can help.
Radiation to the pelvic area can cause problems with urination or bowel movements. You can often manage these issues with medicine or diet changes.
It is normal to feel anxious or have mood changes. Counseling and support groups can offer helpful support.
Make sure to tell your care team about any side effects you experience. They can provide treatments and resources to help you feel better.
“We know that starting radiation therapy can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone,” Dr. Lin says. “We are here to answer your questions. We want to ease your worries. Our goal is to help you feel comfortable and supported during your care.”