Radiation treatment is the controlled deliverance of high doses of x-ray beams to the site of a cancerous lesion. The energy beams are sent from a device called a linear accelerator to the patient's body. Precise delivery of the dose of radiation destroys the tumor and limits the damage to the surrounding healthy cells. The side effects of radiation treatment to the neck include a sore throat, radiation dermatitis and changes in the mouth.
Sore Throat and Difficulty Swallowing
Two weeks into radiation treatment, a patient will experience a sore throat. A sore throat is the main side effect of radiation treatment to the neck. It continues through the entire course of therapy. Swallowing is painful. Maintaining adequate nutrition and hydration is important. A feeding tube may be temporarily inserted by a gastroenterologist. The feeding tube allows a patient to receive nutrition. It is important for a patient with a feeding tube to continue swallowing. If the muscles used in swallowing are not used, they will waste away and cause long-term swallowing problems. The radiation oncologist will order a "magic mouthwash". It is a thick liquid which contains a topical numbing medication, antacid and antihistamine. This suspension decreases the discomfort of the sore throat and eases swallowing.
Radiation Dermatitis
Radiation dermatitis is an inflammation to the skin caused by radiation treatment. Patients who receive radiation treatment to the neck can experience redness, itching, swelling and blistering of the skin. Redness can develop within the first two weeks of treatment. The severity of this side effect is dependent upon the length of treatment and the dosage of radiation. A routine of gentle washing and drying of the skin is recommended. The application of a moisturizer can give relief but should not be applied to the skin just before radiation treatment. This can interfere with the effectiveness of the radiation. A patient with radiation dermatitis needs to limit the time spent in the sun and avoid any irritating products, such as perfume, to the neck. Thinning of the skin is a long-term effect of radiation.
Changes in the Mouth
Inflammation of the inside of the mouth can happen when radiation is delivered to the neck. A person will experience a dry mouth and notice a loss in the ability to taste. Usually these side effects go away once radiation treatment has ended. Good oral hygiene is important because the risk of developing cavities increases. Any possible dental procedures should be done before radiation treatment begins because the gum can become inflamed.
