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Everyone is different. Some people experience more side effects than others; a few get none at all.
The side effects you get will depend on:
- the part of your body being treated, and
- how much radiotherapy you are having (the dose).
Remember that most side effects last only for a while. After treatment they will gradually go away, and you will get back to normal.
Sometimes radiotherapy can cause longer term problems. Your doctor will tell you about the benefits, risks and possible side effects of your treatment. S/he will ask you to sign a consent form to say that you agree to have the radiotherapy.
When you attend for treatment please tell your radiographers or doctors about any side effects you are having. They may be able to help you feel better - by giving you advice or medicine, for instance.
Possible side effects can include:
Tiredness:
You may find that you feel tired during treatment. The treatment affects your healthy cells, and although these can repair themselves, this requires extra energy. Travelling to and from the hospital can make you feel tired. The best way to cope is to get plenty of rest and to eat a healthy diet. Ask your friends and family to help with any every day activities.
Sore Skin:
The skin may feel very dry and become red and itchy. We recommend that you:
- Use aqueous cream to moisturise the skin
- Use baby soap to wash
- Try and shower instead of bathing
- Use lukewarm water to shower or bathe
- Pat the skin dry with a soft towel and do not rub
- Do not expose the area being treated to the sun
- Protect the area with sun block for 12 months after treatment
Your skin reaction may gradually get worse 10 - 14 days after treatment has finished, therefore you must continue to look after your skin until any reaction has settled.
It is best not to use any of the following products on the skin during treatment:
- Bubble bath
- Shower gel
- Hair removing cream
- Talcum powder
- Bath soap
We have information about the side effects of radiotherapy for particular cancers in the cancer types section
