Managing side effects

Although radiation treatment is completely painless, there may be some side effects.  Any side effects will be specific to the area being treated and are usually minor.

You will be given the side effect information sheet specific for your treatment programme by your radiation oncologist or you can ask your treatment team for a copy.  Any questions relating to side effects can be discussed with your radiation oncologist at any time.  Please note, external beam radiation therapy does not make you radioactive and it is absolutely safe for you to be with other people.

In the first week of your treatment, specific advice will be given to you regarding skin care and general health by your radiation therapy team.  You can discuss any issues with them at any time.

At regular intervals during your treatment, appointments will be scheduled with your oncologist to review your progress.  During these appointments please feel free to discuss any concerns or issues associated with your treatment.

Below are a few general side effects you may experience: