Cancer can be a tough battle to fight – but it need not a death sentence, especially when it is diagnosed in the early stage. With the right interventions and treatments, many people beat cancer and go on to lead long and happy lives. If you, or somebody you know is suffering from cancer, you may have been advised to undergo radiation as one of the therapies. Here’s are 5 quick pointers on what to expect and how to prepare for the treatment, to ensure the best outcome.
1) Finding a good team is half the cure
It is important to do your research and find the best possible radiation therapy team and health care professionals who can support you in your journey towards wellness. Feel free to discuss the benefits and side effects of your treatment plan with your medical support team.
Here are the people who would be assisting you:
Radiation oncologist – Specializes in radiation therapy treatments.
Radiation oncologist nurses – Provide support and care during radiation therapy.
Radiation therapist – Administers treatment according to the treatment plan.
Dosimetrist – Calculates right dosage of radiation for treatment plan.
Other healthcare professionals – Nutritionists, social workers, counselors, dentists, physical therapists and speech and language therapists
2) What to expect at your radiation session
1. First meeting – Initially, your doctor will review your medical history, perform a physical examination and discuss your treatment plan.
2. First radiation therapy session – The first session may be a simulation and could be performed without giving radiation therapy. Your team will take x-rays and scans to locate the tumor. Depending on the area, they may make small marks on your skin. You will be asked to lie still and may be fitted with a mask or immobilization device to help you do so.
3. During radiation therapy sessions – Tiny, permanent dots called tattoos may be used to replace the marks on your skin. Similar to the simulation session, it is important to lie still and breathe normally. Your team will help you find a comfortable position. Rest assured that you will not be able to feel, see, smell or hear the radiation once the session starts.
3) Side-effects
Everyone experiences side-effects differently, depending on the type of cancer and the area of treatment. Fatigue and tiredness are common fallouts of the treatment, but the degree may vary. Most side-effects are temporary and develop while you are receiving treatment. There may also be late effects – changes to your body develop later as a result of the treatment.
4) Making time for the most important bit - self-care
Nutrition – Needless to say, it is crucial to eat healthy when you’re undergoing radiation. Your appetite may be affected by the therapy, so extra care should be taken to maintain a balanced and healthy diet.
Rest – To combat the side-effects of fatigue, make sure you’re getting plenty of rest for your body and mind.
Sun exposure – Minimize exposure to the sun and apply sun-screens and lotions as prescribed by the doctor.
Skin care – Radiation may cause the skin to become red and itchy. To alleviate this, wear loose and comfortable clothing, avoid scratching or rubbing the affected area, and use lukewarm water and prescribed soaps and lotions to get some relief from the itching.
5) A few more useful tips
1. Always show up on time to your sessions.
2. Finish all your sessions as prescribed. It is important not to delay or miss sessions as this can affect the treatment plan.
3. Don’t hesitate to ask questions to your team to clarify any doubts or misgivings you may have.
4. Make sure to communicate with your doctor about how your body is responding to the treatment and any side-effects you may be experiencing.
5. Emotional support plays an important role in treatment as well. Seek support from your health care team and from your family and friends.
6. Above all – put yourself first. Take time off to recover, find reasons to be grateful for, and ensure you’re surrounded by strength and positive vibes – winning the mental battle is more than half the battle won!
If you would like to share more tips on how to tackle and prepare for radiation or any other cancer treatment, do write to us – with your permission, we can share it with others who will benefit from your advice too.