Radiation Therapy: Types, Benefits, and Side Effects Explained
Radiation therapy is a widely used cancer treatment that employs high-energy x-rays, gamma rays, or protons to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It is commonly used to treat cancers of the brain, breast, lung, pancreas, and prostate but can also be effective for certain non-cancerous conditions such as uterine fibroids and pituitary tumors.
This blog provides a comprehensive overview of radiation therapy, including its types, how it works, potential benefits, and possible side effects.
Types of Radiation Therapy
There are three primary types of radiation therapy, each tailored to different types of cancer and treatment goals.
1. External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)
Delivers radiation from a machine outside the body.
Commonly used for brain, breast, lung, and prostate cancer.
The most widely used form of radiation therapy.
2. Brachytherapy
A form of internal radiation therapy where radioactive material is placed inside the body near the tumor.
Used to treat cervical, endometrial, prostate, and skin cancer.
3. Stereotactic Radiation Therapy (SRT)
Delivers highly focused radiation in a single or limited number of sessions.
Often used for brain tumors, certain breast cancers, and prostate cancer.
Each method is selected based on the type, location, and stage of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health.
How Radiation Therapy Works
Radiation therapy involves multiple treatment sessions, usually spread over several weeks.
What to Expect During Treatment:
Consultation & Imaging:
Doctors use CT or MRI scans to create a customized treatment plan.
Positioning for Treatment:
Patients are carefully positioned in the treatment machine to ensure accuracy.
Cushions and restraints may be used to help maintain the correct position.
Radiation Administration:
The patient remains still while the radiation beam is directed at the tumor.
The procedure lasts 15 to 30 minutes and is painless, though the machine may produce a loud buzzing sound.
The total number of sessions depends on the cancer type, location, and treatment plan.
Benefits of Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is a proven and effective cancer treatment. Its key benefits include:
✔️ Kills cancer cells and prevents them from spreading.
✔️ Reduces tumor size, making surgery more effective.
✔️ Minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissue with advanced targeting.
✔️ Can be combined with chemotherapy or immunotherapy for better results.
For many patients, radiation therapy offers a lifesaving option that can improve survival rates and quality of life.
Potential Side Effects of Radiation Therapy
While effective, radiation therapy can cause short-term and long-term side effects that vary based on the treatment area.
Common Side Effects:
Fatigue
Skin irritation or burns
Hair loss (in treated areas)
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Long-Term Side Effects:
Infertility (if radiation is directed near reproductive organs)
Increased risk of developing secondary cancers
Possible organ damage (if radiation affects healthy tissues nearby)
Site-Specific Side Effects:
Brain radiation – Hair loss, brain fog, headaches, seizures.
Abdominal radiation – Nausea, cramps, digestive discomfort.
Lung radiation – Cough, shortness of breath, lung inflammation.
Because of these risks, patients should discuss potential side effects with their doctor before beginning treatment.
Final Thoughts: Is Radiation Therapy Right for You?
Radiation therapy plays a crucial role in cancer treatment, often improving survival rates and reducing tumor size before surgery or chemotherapy. While it has side effects, proper medical supervision and supportive care can help manage symptoms.
If you or a loved one is considering radiation therapy, consult with your oncology team to weigh the benefits and risks. With the right care and support, radiation therapy can be a powerful tool in the fight against cancer.
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This blog was reviewed by Dr. Sourabh Kharait.
This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan, hydration strategies, or diet. The information provided here is based on general insights and may not apply to individual circumstances.
