Radiation Therapy Definition
Radiation therapy is a treatment given to cancer patients. With radiation therapy, the goal is for the cancer cells to be killed or damaged to the point that they can no longer grow or spread to other areas of the body. In radiation therapy, high-energy rays are delivered to the area of the body diagnosed with cancer. The radiation used is the same radiation that is used for X-rays, the difference being the amount used. In addition to killing cancer cells, radiation therapy can be helpful to patients in alleviating other problems associated with cancer, such as pain or bladder control. Another medical term used for radiation therapy is radiotherapy.
Means of Radiation
Radiation therapy can be given by two means, internal and external. Both are local treatments. External radiation generally consists of outpatient visits to the hospital for treatment. These treatments are prescribed by the physician and can be performed daily if necessary. A machine set up outside the body is directed toward the specific cancer location. Internal radiation is given to the patient internally. This can be done through different methods and allows a smaller area of the body to be treated at a time. Methods that are used include swallowing a pill, an intravenous drip or drinking the radiation in liquid form. Internal radiation generally requires an inpatient hospital stay, with the patient being discharged upon the decline of the radiation in the body. In some cancer patients, both types of radiation are recommended and used to help speed the process of cancer cell destruction for the patient. Receiving both treatments can, however, be very time-consuming for the patient, as a hospital stay as well as repeated follow-up visits to the hospital will be required.
Radiation Therapy Side Effects
While definitely unpleasant, the side effects of radiation therapy subside once treatment is finished. The side effects include tiredness and diarrhea. Skin problems such as rash, redness or scarring may occur and may have the appearance of a burn. Infections are also a possibility, as radiation therapy reduces white blood cell counts. It is always very important for the patient to address any concerns about side effects with her doctor. Determining whether or not the side effects are a result of the radiation will help with the treatment of them. Side effects can usually be managed and should not disrupt the patient's life in most cases. It is possible for patients undergoing radiation therapy to continue with jobs and careers on either a full- or part-time basis.
Tags: radiation therapy, side effects, area body, cancer cells, cancer patients