Preparing for Radiation Therapy
Everything you need to know about radiation therapy - how it works, what to expect, and how to care for yourself during treatment.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells in a specific area. It's one of the most common cancer treatments and is painless during the session itself. Understanding the process can help reduce anxiety.
How Radiation Works
- High-energy beams target and damage the DNA of cancer cells
- Healthy cells can usually repair themselves, but cancer cells cannot
- Treatment is targeted to a specific area - it's not whole-body like chemo
- Modern machines (like TrueBeam at Asiri AOI) are very precise
- You will NOT be radioactive after external beam radiation
The Planning Phase
Before treatment begins, your team will carefully plan your sessions.
- A CT scan maps the exact area to be treated
- Tiny permanent marks (tattoo dots) may be placed on your skin for alignment
- A custom mould or mask may be made to keep you still during treatment
- Your radiation oncologist designs the treatment plan using advanced software
- Planning takes 1-2 weeks before actual treatment begins
During Treatment Sessions
Each session is quick and painless.
- •Sessions last 15-30 minutes, but actual radiation is only a few minutes
- •You'll lie on a treatment table while the machine moves around you
- •The process is completely painless - like getting an X-ray
- •You'll be alone in the room but monitored by cameras and intercom
- •Treatment is usually 5 days per week for 3-7 weeks
- •Try to schedule sessions at the same time each day for routine
Common Side Effects by Area
Head & Neck
Sore throat, dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, taste changes, dental problems
Chest / Breast
Skin redness, fatigue, cough, difficulty swallowing if near oesophagus
Abdomen / Pelvis
Nausea, diarrhea, bladder irritation, fatigue
All Areas (General)
Fatigue (most common), skin changes in treated area, emotional stress
Skin Care During Radiation
The treated area may become sensitive. Proper skin care is essential.
- Wash the treated area gently with lukewarm water and mild soap
- Do NOT use hot water, ice packs, or heating pads on the area
- Pat skin dry gently - never rub
- Use only doctor-approved moisturizers (like aqueous cream)
- Wear loose, soft cotton clothing over the treated area
- Protect treated skin from direct sunlight
- Do NOT apply perfume, deodorant, or talcum powder to the area
- Do NOT scratch or pick at the skin - even if it itches
Tips for Daily Life During Radiation
- Eat well and stay hydrated - your body needs energy to heal
- Rest when tired, but try to stay gently active with short walks
- Side effects usually build up gradually - weeks 3-4 may be hardest
- You can continue working if you feel able - many patients do
- Keep all your appointments - skipping sessions can reduce effectiveness
- Side effects typically improve 2-4 weeks after treatment ends