What You Will Find Inside:
Radiation therapy works to damage and kill cancer cells. It can also damage healthy cells. This can lead to you having side effects (changes) where your body is being treated.
After your CT/Planning appointment your Radiation Oncologist (cancer doctor) will create your treatment plan. You might have treatment to the:
In some cases lymph nodes may also be treated. Your Radiation Oncologist or Radiation Therapist can tell you exactly where you will be getting treatment.
Radiation therapy can cause side effects in the area being treated.
Radiation side effects can:
If you have any side effects, or need to ask a question, talk to your Health Care Team.
Fatigue (feeling tired) is the most common side effect people with cancer feel. This is normal. Fatigue can become worse during radiation therapy. You may feel weak or have low interest in daily tasks.
Radiation passes through your skin. Your skin may feel warm, be itchy, and/or look red (like a sunburn). After your treatment is done, the changes to your skin may get worse before they get better. This is normal. It will take time for your skin to heal.
Cancer and its treatments can change how you look and the way you feel about your body. You may be worried about how others see you. This can affect your relationships.
Cancer and its treatment can lead to depression and/or anxiety. Depression is when you feel sad for a long time, making it hard to live your life. Anxiety is when you often feel worry, fear or are nervous.
Visit the J. Wesley Graham Patient & Family Resource Centre to get a printed copy of a Cancer Care Ontario Symptom Management Guide. You can also scan or click the links below to access online:
About This Resource
Author: Waterloo Wellington Regional Cancer Program
Revised: November 2024
PEM#: PEMWRHNCC0018
Use this resource for your information only. It does not replace medical advice from your doctor or other healthcare professionals.
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.cancerwaterloowellington.ca
Symptom Management
During Treatment
This handout was created to help guide you on how to care for your skin during radiation treatment.
Treatment
Learn about what to expect when getting radiation therapy to the chest.