Radiation therapy is one of the most common treatments in case of the cancer patients and although it is an effective treatment, there are some side effects of radiation therapy that the patients have to be prepared for.

These can vary from one patient to the other and they also depend on different factors, such as how often the treatment is given. There are three really common radiation therapy side effects.

Fatigue

During the treatment every patient will feel a certain level of fatigue. This refers to a feeling of general tiredness. In case you are experiencing this type of radiation therapy side effects, you should rely on the support system when it comes to children, errands, chores and other activities.

In order to help yourself you should have some short naps during the day and make sure that your sleep during the night is uninterrupted. These will help you boost your energy level.

Loss of appetite as one of the side effects of radiation therapy

This could also be one of the causes that you experience fatigue and it could also lead to nutritional deficiencies. Keeping yourself strong is important when you are undergoing cancer treatment and one of the best ways to do so and to avoid radiation therapy side effects is to have a healthy nutrition.

You shouldn’t have three large meals; instead have more, smaller meals throughout the day. Opt for those kinds of foods that are rich in vitamins, such as vegetables and fruits.

Towards the end of the treatment you will realize that your appetite increases. One of the side effects of radiation therapy in case of those patients that have neck or head cancer is the lack of saliva. In such a case you should talk to your doctor because there are some special treatments.

Skin problems

This is one of the most well-known radiation therapy side effects. The skin area that has been directly exposed to the rays may turn red, tan, sunburned or even irritated. Keep in mind that the human skin is sensitive and should be treated as such. This is why there are some special creams and lotions that you could get from your doctor or nurse.

During the treatment it is advisable for the patients to avoid scented body lotions, perfumes, exposure to the sun and tight-fitted clothing. In order not to have side effects of radiation therapy you should go on with the precautions a year after the treatment is over. Usually the problems with the skin disappear after the treatment is stopped.

There are some things that you could do in order to avoid radiation therapy side effects such as having plenty of rest and a healthy nutrition, as it has been mentioned before, wear comfortable and loose clothing, protect the skin against the sun, don’t scrub, rub or use adhesive tape on the treated skin area and don’t put heat or cold on the skin.

Keep in mind all these in order to avoid side effects of radiation therapy.