6 Things to Learn When Facing Radiation Therapy Treatment
Some people get worried when they hear that they have to undergo radiation treatment. This is because people will tell you some terrifying stories about the operation. Radiation therapy involves high-energy x-rays and sometimes other particles used to extinguish cancer cells. We all know how dangerous cancer is. Now, let’s see 6 things to expect during radiation treatment.
- Expect To Be Tattooed
Your affected area will be marked by a few dots. These dots look like tattoo so if you have not been tattooed before you have to be ready for this. The dots will help the care team identify the affected area during the operation. Additionally, the dots will help the team line up the machine well with your tumor.
They will use a needle-like object which can be hurt. However, don’t worry because it does not hurt that much. You can live with the dots for the rest of your life. If you don’t like tattoos this will be a must if you will undergo the operation.
- It Hurts
Anything involving cutting is expected to hurt and so is radiation therapy. This is one aspect that worries people the most. The interesting thing is that it does not hurt like cancer. So there is still some encouragement.
However, you need to have the courage to undergo the treatment for your good. The body will still hurt even after the treatment. The reason is that it’s like a wound and so obvious the wound to hurt. Therefore don’t expect the pain to end at the operation center.
- Expect Side Effects
Though some side effects will remain in the rest of your life it is better than to live with the deadly disease. The doctors may leave some implants in your body which you will feel almost all the time. Some of the effects will involve some swelling which can be painful. You can even experience some blood and fluid flow.
Sometimes your skin can start to breakdown. The skin can even become sensitive. Sometimes the skin can even become red and have some open burns. However, this is not much price compared to the effects of cancer.
- Visit Your Oncologist
It is good to know how your body reacts. This will determine if you can undergo radiation therapy treatment. Don’t listen to people too much because our bodies react in different ways. The doctor will give you details about the operation and if you are good then you sign a document for the operation. You have to know that radiation therapy treatment is a process of risk and you have to consult your doctor first.
- Punctuality and Timely
The radiation therapy process takes place differently according to how the patient is affected and therefore the treatment process will also take different duration. It will be better to be punctual and timely. Additionally, since our bodies react and behave differently this means the process will also be the same.
If your friend took a specific time don’t expect yours to be the same. The doctor may tell you to arrive early to test some operation gowns and you should not delay.
- Special Considerations
There are some things you should not do when waiting for radiation therapy treatment. For, instance a woman is not expected to be pregnant during the operation. Furthermore, sexual activities are prohibited for both men and women even after the operation for some time.
Conclusion
Radiation therapy treatment should be taken very seriously to avoid further complications. Most people prefer to go for private radiation therapy treatment because they view it as safer. However, it will depend on your preparedness and your body reactions.