According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), radiation treatment can result in many side effects because a person is receiving high doses of radiation to destroy cancer cells, and healthy cells in the treatment area also may be damaged. Side effects vary from one person to the next. However, the NCI notes symptoms may be worse if you have also had chemotherapy before, during or after radiation treatment.
Skin Changes
One of the most common side effects of radiation treatment is skin issues. Symptoms can range from itching, blistering and peeling to swollen skin in the treatment area, pruritus (a near-constant need to scratch) and redness that looks similar to sunburn. Sores and ulcers may occur because radiation therapy causes the skin to peel.
Fatigue
The American Cancer Society says feeling exhausted is a very common side effect of radiation therapy. A person experiencing fatigue may feel weak, weary and lack a desire for activity as well as have trouble participating in normal activities.
Hair Loss
Radiation treatment damages cells that grow quickly; this includes your hair roots, notes NCI. However, unlike chemotherapy, hair loss only happens in the treatment area, though it may begin to occur in as little as two weeks. Generally, hair grows back three- to-six months after treatment.
Mouth Changes
If you are having radiation therapy to the head or neck, mouth sores, a dry mouth and throat, tooth decay, loss of taste and tooth, tongue or gum infections as well as jaw stiffness and thick saliva may be among the symptoms of radiation treatment, according to the NCI. Certain symptoms, such as mouth sores, may go away after treatment, but others, like dry mouth, may remain for an indefinite period.
Nausea and Vomiting
Radiation treatment can cause nausea or vomiting, or both can occur. Dry heaving is possible, too. This is particularly likely when treatment of the brain, colon, small intestine or stomach occurs.
Sexual Changes
From hormone changes to an inability to get pregnant, the NCI says radiation treatment can result in sexual side effects. Side effects for women may include pain or discomfort while having sex, menopausal symptoms and vaginal itching. In the case of men, impotence and less effective sperm are possible.
Other Symptoms
Additional symptoms may range from diarrhea to trouble emptying the bladder, inflammation of the urinary tract and esophagitis.
