A key weapon in the battle against cancer cell growth, radiation oncology treatments can also damage other fast-growing, healthy cells, including bone marrow, hair follicles, parts of the digestive system and sexual organs. Once the radiation treatments are stopped, healthy cellular growth can often continue; however, there can be ongoing side effects from the treatments other than the temporary interruption in cell regeneration.
Mental Side Effects
Side effects from radiation oncology can range from altered mood and sleep problems to memory loss. Cancer Treatment Centers of America warns that the patient could become emotionally unstable, have outbursts, seem confused, and experience diminished sexual ability and loss of desire.
Physical Changes
Temporary side effects from radiation oncology include changes in appearance, such as hair loss and skin pigmentation changes. While undergoing treatment, you may experience swelling of the joints and limbs as well as severe fatigue, known as cancer fatigue. The Mayo Clinic warns that fighting cancer with radiation can leave the patient both exhausted and weak.
Possible Side Effects
Radiation oncology may cause a loss of appetite, insomnia, irritability, treatment site pain and anemia. Nausea may become severe enough to cause vomiting.
Compromised Immune System
Another side effect of radiation oncology can be a compromised immune system. The American Cancer Society's website states that both greater susceptibility to infections and nerve damage could occur; digestive problems, from altered taste buds and difficulty chewing and swallowing to constipation and/or diarrhea, are often common.
Other Short Term Side Effects
Other short term side effects from radiation oncology can include hoarseness and throat soreness. According to the American Cancer Society, open sores may develop in both the mouth and throat, making it difficult to eat or drink while going through treatment. Sometimes drinking liquid through a tube is necessary, with the tube placed in the stomach, a procedure called a gastrostomy.
Managing Side Effects
Cancer patients should work with their doctors to manage side effects so that in the months after treatment, they can return to normal life as quickly as possible. Pain management shouldn't be limited to drugs; nerve blocks, meditation and guided therapy may all be useful in working through the worst side effects. Regaining health is crucial for cancer survivors, with healthy diets, exercise and weight management all important factors.
