Radiation Therapy to Control your Symptoms

Your pain in the treated area may get worse before it gets better. You may feel this pain flare up for a few days after your first treatment.

• Take your pain medication as prescribed

You may get nausea (upset stomach) and vomiting (throwing up) if you get radiation treatment to your stomach (belly)

• Take your nausea medication as prescribed
• If you don’t have a prescription, ask your health care team or pharmacist for advice ‘

You may get diarrhea (loose, watery poo) if you get radiation treatment to your pelvis.

• Cut back on fibre, such as fresh fruits and vegetables
• Drink lots of fluids
• If your diarrhea does not stop, ask your health care team or pharmacist for advice

Your skin in the treated area may feel warm, itchy and look red (like a sunburn).  You should:

• Wash using warm water and mild soap
• Pat dry with a soft towel
• Do not rub, scrub, or scratch
• Don’t use any creams or powders unless told to by your radiation team
• Cover the area from the sun, cold and wind
• Use an electric razor to shave in treated area
• You can use deodorant

Fatigue (being tired) is the most common side effect people with cancer feel. This is normal. Your fatigue may get worse with radiation therapy. You may feel weak or have low interest in daily tasks.

• Try to be active for 30min a day to increase your energy
• Improve your sleep
• Ask your health care team for advice

Cancer and its treatment can lead to depression or anxiety.

Depression is when you feel sad for a long time, making it hard to live your regular life. Anxiety is when you often feel worried, fearful, or nervous.

• Ask for support from family, friends and your health care team
• Focus on good things in your life that you can control