Experiences with Radiation

Radiation therapy is one of the most common drug treatments that uses high-energy particles or waves to destroy fast-spreading cancer cells. Radiation therapy is often used with other forms of treatment. Radiation therapy is given in two ways: external beam radiation therapy and internal radiation therapy. Common side effects for radiation therapy include fatigue, skin changes, and loss of appetite. Some patients experience no side effects; side effects depend on diagnosis, stage, where you get the radiation, and your body. Because everyone’s body is so different, what you’re really wondering is - ‘How will my body react to radiation therapy?’.

One of the first rules of undergoing radiation therapy treatment is to keep your doctor informed about every side effect. Some of the side effects may be normal, but it is important to pay attention to any rare side effects. WhatNexters have shared that they have been fatigued, had to change their diet, nausea, mouth sores, and some have had very little side effects. Radiation therapy may seem like a shot in the dark. The side effects are hard to pinpoint, and you may not know what you’re dealing with until you get right in the middle of treatment. The best insights on radiation therapy come from all the members that have been through it themselves. Search what others have experienced, post your questions, and get firsthand insights on what you may be able to expect with your specific radiation therapy.

Don't forget to view our Beginner's Guide to Cancer.