8 Questions to Ask Your Oncologist about Radiation Treatment
Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. On top of coping with the news, you’ll need to make treatment decisions and understand the impact of therapies on your life. If your doctor has recommended radiation therapy, you may have many questions. Being well-informed about the potential benefits, risks, and side effects of treatment can help alleviate some of your stress and empower you to make the best decisions for your care.
Here are some key questions to ask your radiation oncologist, along with general answers that may guide you through your treatment journey.
- Will radiation therapy make me feel sick?
- Will I lose my hair?
- Is it safe to be around children or pregnant women during my radiation therapy?
- Can I take baths or showers during radiation treatment?
- Can I go swimming while receiving radiation therapy?
- Will I be able to have sexual intercourse during treatment?
- Will I need to change my diet?
- Can I continue working while undergoing radiation therapy?
Radiation therapy is a localized treatment, meaning it targets a specific area of the body. This means that side effects tend to be localized as well. Some people experience general tiredness or fatigue, which is a common response to many types of cancer treatment. If you’re receiving radiation to areas such as the stomach or digestive tract, you may experience nausea or vomiting, and radiation to the pelvis or rectal area could lead to bowel irregularities. Your radiation oncologist will provide medication to help manage any side effects.
Hair loss is a common concern for patients undergoing cancer treatments. However, hair loss only occurs if the radiation is directed at the scalp. If you are not receiving radiation to your head, you will not lose your hair.
Yes, it is safe to be around children, babies, and pregnant women while you are undergoing radiation therapy. The radiation treatment is localized to the area being treated and does not make you radioactive. You can continue to hold your children, hug family members, and spend time with loved ones without worrying about passing on any radiation.
Yes, you can bathe or shower while undergoing radiation therapy. However, some ingredients in soaps and shampoos may irritate the skin in the area being treated, potentially causing redness or soreness. Your radiation oncology team will provide guidance on which products are safe to use.
Yes, swimming in fresh or saltwater is generally fine, but swimming in chlorinated pools is not recommended. Chlorine can irritate the skin, especially in areas that have been exposed to radiation.
Yes, it is safe to engage in sexual activity during radiation therapy if you feel comfortable. You are not radioactive, so there is no risk to your partner. However, it’s important to note that if you are a woman of childbearing age, you will need to use birth control during treatment. Your radiation oncology team can help you decide which type of contraception is best for your situation. If you have concerns about intimacy, sex, or emotional well-being during your cancer treatment, don’t hesitate to bring them up with your healthcare team.
Radiation therapy can take a toll on your body, and maintaining your energy levels is important. Depending on the area being treated, your doctor may recommend a high-calorie diet to help you maintain your strength. It’s important to monitor your weight and energy levels and make dietary adjustments as needed.
Whether or not you can work during radiation therapy depends on several factors, including the type of radiation, the area being treated, and how your body responds. Many people are able to work during the initial stages of treatment, but as therapy progresses, you may begin to feel more fatigued. Talk with your radiation oncologist about what to anticipate and prepare accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Radiation therapy is commonly recommended for multiple types of cancer. Understanding the process, potential side effects, and how the treatment will impact your daily life is crucial for managing your experience. Always feel comfortable asking your radiation oncologist any questions or expressing concerns at any point during your treatment. Your healthcare team is there to support you Sierra Hemonc and ensure you feel confident in your treatment plan.
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