Approximately two weeks after your first radiation treatment, you may experience some mild side effects. They may continue throughout the treatment period and gradually disappear after you have completed treatment. Your radiation oncologist will discuss which symptoms you are likely to experience, when you will notice them and how long they will last. To help minimize side effects, please follow these instructions carefully, and communicate any discomfort to your radiation oncologist or nurse.
Dental care
An evaluation by a dental oncologist of your teeth and oral cavity is necessary before starting radiation therapy. This evaluation is important to identify any problems that currently exist, prior to initiation of treatment. This will help prevent long-term side effects. Diligent oral care and contact with your dentist will help prevent tooth decay caused by decreases in saliva.
Skin Reactions
The skin exposed to radiation may become dry and itchy, tanned or reddened. These symptoms will subside within a few weeks after completing therapy. Keeping your skin clean and dry will help. To cleanse properly, use lukewarm water and a mild soap, such as Dove, Basis Neutrogena or Aveno Oatmeal Soap. Wash the area gently and pat it dry with a soft towel. Do not scrub, rub or massage.
Avoid lotions and deodorants
Consult your nurse, therapist or radiation oncologist before applying any creams, ointments, lotions, powders or deodorants to the treatment area. These products often contain metals and alcohol, which can decrease the skin-sparing effect of today’s radiation equipment and may result in increased skin irritation.
Temporary Hair Loss
Any hair in the treatment area may shed within the first few weeks of radiation therapy. It will re-grow approximately three to six months after completing your therapy. Occasionally, hair loss may be permanent.
Sore Mouth and/or Throat
Prepare a gargle by dissolving one teaspoon of salt and baking soda in one quart of warm water. A smaller portion of this can be made by stirring ¼ teaspoon each of salt and baking soda into 8 ounces of warm water. Rinse your mouth and gargle with this solution at least four to six times a day, especially after meals and before going to bed.
You may brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush, but do not use mouthwash, toothpaste or lozenges, unless approved by your radiation oncologist or nurse.
If swallowing food becomes painful or your mouth becomes sore, discuss this with your nurse or radiation oncologist. Medication is available to ease these discomforts. See additional information in “Having Problems Swallowing?”
Do not smoke or chew tobacco.
Thickened saliva and dry mouth
Use a cold-mist humidifier in your main living area during the day and in your bedroom at night. This will help keep your secretions thinner and easier to eliminate. Be sure to clean your humidifier every 2-3 days to avoid bacterial build-up.
Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless candy for oral lubrication. Drink four to six 8-ounce
glasses of fluid per day. You may want to carry a small plastic bottle of water with you when you leave home. Artificial saliva or medications may be ordered by your radiation oncologist to help with mouth dryness. See additional information in “Helpful Hints for People Receiving Radiation to the Head and Neck Area”
Hoarseness
If your voice starts to become hoarse, speak as little as possible. Do not whisper as this strains your voice. Your voice will return to normal within several weeks of completing your treatment.
Diet
Do not drink alcoholic beverages.
Do not eat foods or drink fluids that are hot in temperature, highly acidic or highly seasoned. Foods served lukewarm or at room temperature will be easier to swallow. In addition, foods which are soft and moist are swallowed more comfortably than firm, dry foods. Eat smaller portions more frequently.
Taste Changes
During therapy, your sense of taste may change. Different foods may seem to taste alike, have a slightly bitter taste or no taste at all. Meat commonly becomes distasteful after several weeks of treatment. If you are unable to tolerate meat, be sure to supplement this source of protein by eating more fish, poultry, eggs, cheese and milk. Foods which are slightly chilled, such as milkshakes, Jell-O and pudding, may be tolerated better. Zinc and honey or zinc and citrus lozenges, available at health food stores, may also help.
You may see a dietitian during your treatment course. The dietitian will help you maintain your weight by finding foods that are easy to swallow and give you adequate nutrition.
Sexual Activity
Sexual desire or performance may change during your treatment. These changes vary greatly from one person to another. Please discuss your concerns with your radiation oncologist or nurse.
Fatigue
You may notice that you become increasingly tired during the last weeks of your treatment course. This is not unusual. Pace your activities and plan frequent rest periods to avoid becoming overtired. You can discuss appropriate types of exercise with your radiation oncologist or nurse. See additional information in “Simple Ways to Relieve Fatigue”.
Counseling
We understand the special needs and concerns you and your family are experiencing. Your radiation oncologist, nurse and other members of your treatment team can help answer your questions. If necessary, your physician may refer you to a counselor, who can also talk with you, recommend appropriate support groups and refer you to the right community agencies.
