Side effects are complications that may arise as a result of treatment. These can occur with Radiation therapy because the high doses of radiation that are used to destroy cancer cells may also damage healthy cells in the treatment area. Side effects are different for each individual. Many may have multiple side effects. Others have barely any. Side effects may be more severe if you also undergo Chemotherapy before, during, or after your Radiation therapy.
Consult with the doctor or nurse about the chances of getting side effects. The team will observe you and ask if you have any issues. If you do have side effects, the doctor or nurse can speak with you about ways to treat them.
Common Side Effects
Many people who get Radiation therapy have skin changes and some Fatigue. Certain side effects depend on the portion of the body being treated.
Surface changes can include dryness, scratching, peeling, or blistering in the treatment area. These changes occur because radiation passes through the skin on its way to the cancer. You will need to take extra care of your skin during Radiation therapy.
Fatigue is also described as feeling tired or exhausted. Depending on the part of the body being treated, you might also have:
| Part of the Body Being Treated | Possible Side Effects |
| Brain | Fatigue, Hair loss, Nausea and vomiting, Skin changes, Headache, Blurry vision |
| Breast | Fatigue, Hair loss, Skin changes, Tenderness, Swelling |
| Chest | Fatigue, Hair loss, Skin changes, Throat changes, such as trouble swallowing, Cough, Shortness of breath |
| Head and Neck | Fatigue, Hair loss, Mouth changes, Skin changes, Throat changes, such as trouble swallowing, Taste changes, Less active thyroid gland |
| Pelvis | Diarrhoea, Fatigue, Hair loss, Nausea and vomiting, Sexual and fertility changes, Skin changes, Urinary and bladder changes |
| Rectum | Diarrhoea, Fatigue, Hair loss, Sexual and fertility changes, Skin changes, Urinary and bladder changes |
| Stomach and Abdomen | Diarrhoea, Fatigue, Hair loss, Nausea and vomiting, Skin changes, Urinary and bladder changes |
