What is Radiation Oncology?
Radiation oncology is a type of cancer treatment that uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. It targets specific areas of the body where cancer is present, aiming to destroy the cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Radiation oncology works by using powerful energy beams, like X-rays, to damage the DNA inside cancer cells. This damage stops the cancer cells from growing and dividing, eventually leading to their death. Radiation can be used alone or in combination with other treatments like surgery or chemotherapy.
What Types of Cancers Are Treated with Radiation Oncology?
Radiation oncology can treat many types of cancer, including:
What are the Common Side Effects of Radiation Oncology?
While radiation oncology is effective, it can cause side effects. Common side effects include:
- Skin Changes: The skin in the treated area may become red, dry, or irritated, similar to a sunburn.
- Fatigue: Feeling very tired is a common side effect that may last throughout treatment and for some time afterward.
- Hair Loss: Radiation to the head can cause hair loss in the treated area.
- Nausea: Especially if the abdomen or pelvis is treated.
- Difficulty Swallowing: Can occur if the treatment area includes the throat or chest.
What is the Prognosis After Radiation Oncology?
The prognosis after radiation oncology depends on several factors, including the type of cancer, its stage, and how well the cancer responds to treatment. Radiation oncology is often very effective at controlling or even curing certain cancers, especially when used in combination with other treatments.
How is Radiation Oncology Administered?
Radiation oncology is typically administered in one of two ways:
- External Beam Radiation: This is the most common type, where a machine outside the body aims radiation at the cancer.
- Internal Radiation (Brachytherapy): This involves placing a radioactive source inside the body, near the cancer.
Treatments are usually given daily over several weeks to ensure the best chance of killing cancer cells while allowing healthy cells time to recover.
What Should You Expect During Radiation Therapy?
Before treatment, you’ll have a planning session called a simulation. During this, your care team will map out the precise area to be treated. Radiation therapy itself is painless, and each session usually lasts only a few minutes. You will lie still while the machine delivers the radiation, and then you can go about your day as usual.
