Radiation Oncology
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Medical Management
You will see your radiation oncologist each week while receiving radiation therapy treatment. At this time, the doctor will examine you and answer any questions you may have. Please feel free to ask your nurses and doctor any questions concerning your treatment. They are here to help.
Side Effects
With advances in radiation therapy, side effects are generally less severe than they used to be. Still, some may remain. Common side effects include a feeling of tiredness, skin reactions and a change in appetite. Hair loss is also possible, but only in the area being treated. In general, side effects appear about two weeks after the first treatment and may last four to six weeks after the last treatment is received. Your radiation oncologist or nurse will review potential side effects for which you need to watch.
Treatment Duration and Timeframe
Individual treatments typically last just a few minutes and are given five days a week, Monday through Friday, with the weekends off for rest. Plan to spend at least 15-30 minutes at the center each time you visit. This will allow time for changing into a hospital gown, getting set up and changing back into your street clothes when you're done. The length of your treatment schedule will vary from a few days to eight weeks or more, depending on the type of cancer and how your body reacts. Your radiation oncologist will keep you informed throughout the process, so you know what to expect.