Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation (X-rays) to shrink or destroy cancer cells. During treatment, healthy cells are also affected by the radiation. To decrease the risk to healthy cells, the radiation will be given in a way to reduce your exposure. Your radiation oncology team will help you get through the treatments feeling the best you can, with the least amount of side effects.
You will have the same amount of radiation every day. Radiation may have side effects. They may not begin with the first treatment and they may continue beyond your last treatment. The following are possible side effects you may have:
You will have a planning session with your radiation oncology team before your first radiation treatment. This is called a simulation.
During a simulation, your radiation therapists and doctor will map out the area to be treated with radiation therapy. This planning session usually lasts one to two hours.
During each treatment you can expect the following:
Talk with your radiation therapist, radiation oncologist or nurse if you have any questions or concerns about the radiation treatments or side effects.
As with any medical treatment, radiation therapy has some long-term side effects and risks.
Long-term side effects can include a change in your skin pigmentation (either a darkening or lightening of your skin) in the treatment area.
Long-term risks are that radiation therapy may not destroy all of the cancer, or the cancer may return. Talk with your doctor about what to expect from the treatment.
There may be other possible permanent or late side effects. Your radiation oncologist will review these with you.
After your last radiation treatment, you may remove the marks on your body. You will be given more information when you finish the treatment. Sometimes the cancer will continue to shrink for several weeks after you finish your treatments.
Clinical treatment is just one of the ways we provide expert care for people and families living with cancer. From money matters to holistic healing programs, our team is committed to serving you as a whole person—body, mind and spirit.
Patient account representatives can answer your questions about hospital bills or insurance coverage. They also can help you access Allina Health Financial Assistance Services.
A nurse navigator is a registered nurse who will support, educate and guide you through your course of treatment.
Registered dietitians can assess your food needs and help you set goals to improve eating and manage weight.
Talk with your cancer care provider about the variety of dietitian and nutrition services that are available.
Support groups are designed for people and families affected by cancer. These groups provide a place to connect with others and share thoughts, feelings and ask questions.
The Penny George Institute helps you improve your well-being by focusing on your whole being—mind, body and spirit.
Learn more about the Penny George® Institute for Health and Healing
Advance care planning is the process of giving information to others about your health care choices in case illness or injury prevents you from telling them yourself.
A cancer diagnosis can change your life in an instant. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, confused or anxious about what to do next. That’s why we make it easy to find the information and resources you need at this difficult time.
