Instructions for Patients Who Have Completed Treatment
Patient Information on Radiation Therapy to the Skin
Patient Information on Radiation Therapy to the Brain
Patient Information on Radiation Therapy to the Head & Neck Area
Patient Information on Radiation Therapy to the Breast
Patient Information on Radiation Therapy to the Chest
Cramps / Diarrhea
Patient Information for Radiation Therapy to the Male Pelvis

Patient Information for Radiation Therapy to the Female Pelvis

Patient Information for Prostate Seed Implants

PATIENT INFORMATION ON RADIATION THERAPY TO THE CHEST

Radiation therapy should not change your life style. You may continue with your regular activities, medications, job, etc. Our nurse will explain some of the items that will help you alleviate possible side effects caused by your treatment. Remember that radiation therapy is prescribed specifically for each individual patient and the possible side effects and their severity will be different for each patient.

Chest Skin Care
  • Bathe or shower daily with warm water. Do not use hot water.

  • Do not wash off any of the marks put on by the technicians. If you use soap wash around the lines.

  • Do not rub the treatment area with a wash cloth or towel. Pat the area dry.

  • Use cornstarch to absorb moisture. Do not use Talcum powder.

  • Nivea, Eucerin or pure Aloe Vera lotion may be used in the treatment area for dry itchy skin.

  • Should you notice that your skin is getting red or peeling, please notify our nurse.

  • Do not expose the area under treatment to direct sunlight. Do not sunbathe with the area exposed. Do not use a heating pad on the radiated skin.

  • Do not swim or sit in a hot tub. Your marks will fade and the chemicals in the water may irritate the skin.

Sore throat or difficulty swallowing

After two to three weeks of treatment you may notice that you have some discomfort when you swallow. This is due to irritation of the esophagus by the radiation treatment. Eat soft and liquid foods. Honey may be used to soothe the esophagus if you are not diabetic.

Maalox or Milanta liquid antacid four times a day can help soothe the esophagus.

If the honey, Maalox or Milanta does not help, please contact our oncology nurse or physician.

Cough

After two to three weeks of treatment you may notice a dry cough. This can be caused by irritation of the trachea by the radiation therapy. Over the counter cough syrups may help relieve the cough. If not, please let our nurse know. Stronger medication can be ordered.

Diet

Eat a well balanced diet with plenty of liquids. Do not try to lose weight during treatments.

Dietary supplements may be helpful if you are having trouble maintaining your weight. Our nurse will discuss these with you if needed. Your weight will be monitored weekly during treatment.

Blood counts

Your blood count will be checked weekly by our oncology nurse.

Emotional support

Emotional support is very important at this time. If you have questions about physical closeness or sexual relations, please speak to our doctors or oncology nurse.

Fatigue

There is a possibility that you may develop fatigue during the course of treatment. Severity and duration will vary according to your past medical history and present treatment area. Increasing your rest time will help manage this side effect. Once radiation therapy has been completed, fatigue usually clears within a few weeks.