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What Can I do to Take Care of Myself During Radiation Therapy?
Each patient’s body responds to radiation therapy in its own way. That’s why the doctor must plan, and sometimes adjust, your treatment just for you. In addition, your doctor or nurse will give you advice for caring for yourself at home that is specific for your treatment and the side effects that might results.
Some guidelines:
- Be sure to get plenty of rest. Sleep as often as you feel the need. Your body will use a lot of extra energy over the course of your treatment, and you may feel very tired. Fatigue may last for four to six weeks after your treatment is finished.
- Good nutrition is a must. Try to eat a balanced diet that will prevent weight loss. Avoid wearing tight clothes such as girdles or close-fitting collars over the treatment area.
- Be extra kind to the skin in the treatment area. Do not use any soaps, lotions, deodorants, medicines, perfumes, cosmetics, talcum powder or other substances in the treated area without talking with your doctor.
- Wear loose, soft cotton clothing over the treated area.
Do not starch your clothes
Do not rub or scrub treated skin.
- Do not use adhesive tape on treated skin. If bandaging is necessary, use paper tape.
- Do not apply heat or cold (heating pad, ice pack, etc.) to the treatment area.
- Protect the area from the sun.
- Be sure your doctor knows about any medicines you are taking before starting treatment.
If you have any questions about your treatment, ask your doctor, nurse or radiation therapist.
When Should I Call A Doctor?
After treatment for cancer, you are likely to be more aware of your body and to notice even slight changes in how you feel from day to day. The doctor will want you to report any unusual symptoms. If you have any of these problems, tell your doctor at once:
- A pain that does not go away, especially if it is always in the same place
- Lumps, bumps, or swelling
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- A fever or cough that does not go away
- Unusual rashes, bruises or bleeding
- Any other signs mentioned by your doctor or nurse
