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Tumor reduction after radiation therapy. Rehabilitation after radiation therapy

Radiation (radiation therapy, radiotherapy, radiation therapy) is the use of ionizing radiation (X-rays, gamma radiation, beta radiation, neutron radiation) to damage, destroy, kill cancer cells, and stop the growth and reproduction of new mutated cells. Radiation is a localized treatment that typically affects only the part of the body where the radiation was directed.

As mentioned above, after radiation, cancer cells are damaged, although radiation can also affect healthy cells in the body in the same way. Based on this, cancer after radiation may be accompanied by some complications that arise as side effects (depending on the part of the body on which irradiation was performed; on the location of the malignant neoplasm).

What is radiation treatment for cancer?

Radiation is a method of treating cancer using high-energy radiation (specifically X-rays). The type of radiation, as well as its amount, must be carefully calculated before starting therapy (in such an amount that the radiation can damage abnormal cells) by the treating oncologist team. During the treatment of oncology, irradiation stops the division of cancer cells and, as a result, their number will decrease.

Benefits of Irradiation

As we already know, the goal of radiation therapy is to destroy mutated cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells. Also, radiation can be used to treat any type of cancer, in almost any part of the body. In some cases, irradiation can be carried out separately, but most often it is used in combination with other methods of fighting cancer.

Radiation can be carried out both before and after surgical treatment (before - to reduce the size of the tumor, after - to stop the growth of cancer cells that could remain after surgical excision of the malignant neoplasm). It can also be performed during or after chemotherapy or hormone therapy to improve overall results.

Despite the fact that such treatment is sometimes called radical, radiation therapy is designed to provide a long-term effect for a person with cancer.

This palliative treatment is aimed at reducing the size of the tumor, reducing pain, and relieving other symptoms of cancer. In addition, palliative radiation therapy can prolong the life of a cancer patient.

Cancer after radiation – what to expect? Consequences and complications

As already mentioned, radiation can damage and destroy normal cells, and also cause some side effects as cancer cells break down. Most of these side effects are temporary, rarely severe and do not pose a particular threat to the general condition and life of the patient. Remember, your doctor will not advise you to undergo radiation if the risks and complications outweigh the benefits. Also, the attending physician is obliged to inform you if this treatment in your case may adversely affect your health and provoke certain consequences. You must receive all necessary information in writing.

If a female is exposed to radiation, she should under no circumstances be in position at the time of therapy, since radiation therapy can greatly harm the unborn child, especially in the first three months of pregnancy. The doctor is obliged to inform you in advance about all the pros and cons of this treatment, about the possible consequences and complications that may arise after irradiation, and also provide written information about this.

Most cancer patients undergo radiation therapy. Its main goal is to destroy cancer cells and suppress their ability to reproduce. Despite the fact that irradiation techniques have improved significantly over the past decade, healthy tissue located near the tumor still suffers. This method cannot be called completely safe for health. However, its effect in terms of reducing and destroying the tumor in most cases outweighs the negative consequences.

What can be the consequences of radiation therapy?

The consequences of exposure to radiation depend on its type, depth of penetration into tissue, and individual human reactions. The stronger and longer the exposure, the more noticeable the body’s reaction will be. Most often, complications occur in patients who undergo long-term treatment. The side effects of radiation therapy are not always severe; some patients tolerate such treatment quite easily. In some cases, the consequences develop immediately after the session, in others only after discharge from the hospital, because the therapeutic effect is realized even after the end of the course of radiation therapy.

Complications after radiation therapy:

Skin reactions
Pain, tissue swelling at the site of exposure,
Shortness of breath and cough
Reactions from the mucous membranes,
Fatigue,
Mood and sleep disorders
Nausea, vomiting, disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract,
Hair loss.

Most common skin reactions

After irradiation, the skin loses its resistance to mechanical influences, becomes more tender and sensitive, and requires more careful treatment and careful care.

The skin in the irradiated area changes color, discomfort, burning, and soreness are felt in this area. The skin's reaction to radiation is similar to a sunburn, but it develops gradually. The skin becomes drier and sensitive to touch. Blisters may form and break, revealing a weeping, painful area of skin. Without treatment and proper care, such areas of the skin become entry points for infection. Abscesses may form in these places. Non-healing ulcers after radiation therapy develop in severe cases when patients have particularly sensitive skin, weakened immunity, or suffer from diabetes.

As a rule, skin reactions appear 10-15 days after the start of treatment and disappear 4-5 weeks after the end of the radiation procedures.

Degrees of skin damage resulting from radiation therapy:

1st degree - slight redness,
Grade 2 - redness accompanied by peeling or swelling,
Grade 3 - extensive redness with moist peeling and severe swelling.

Treatment of burns after radiation therapy depends on the extent of skin damage. In the first stage, it is enough to maintain daily skin hygiene and apply moisturizer after the irradiation procedure. In the second and third stages, if itching occurs, a cream containing corticosteroids can be prescribed, which will significantly improve the condition of the skin. However, its use should be limited in time (no more than 7 days). To prevent infection from entering the wound, bandages are applied to it. If signs of infection appear, antibacterial dressings with active silver ions or iodine should be applied.

Signs of radiation wound infection:

Increased pain
Severe swelling
Increased redness
An increase in the amount of fluid in the wound,
The appearance of an unpleasant odor.

High temperature after radiation therapy may be due to infection entering the wound. In this case, it is necessary to conduct additional examinations to determine the nature of the infection.

Reactions from the respiratory system

Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and cough after radiation therapy develop when the effect is on the chest area, for example, with breast cancer. Radiation damage to the lungs appears within three months after irradiation. Typically, the cough is nonproductive (that is, it does not bring relief). If an infection occurs, the temperature may rise and the general condition may deteriorate. Treatment of radiation injuries to the lungs is limited to several methods:

Electro- and phonophoresis,
Magnetotherapy,
Inhalation therapy,
Massage,
Breathing exercises.

In each specific case, methods are selected individually, taking into account the nature of changes in the respiratory organs and the nature of the tumor for which irradiation is performed.

With extensive irradiation of the abdominal and pelvic organs, the mucous membranes of the intestines, stomach, and bladder may suffer. In this regard, the functioning of these organs deteriorates. Irradiation of the ENT organs can lead to stomatitis, dryness and sore throat, and pain in this area.

Many cancer patients report fatigue as a side effect of radiation therapy. This is a rather unpleasant condition. The fact is that it does not go away after sleep or rest. The patient has a feeling that he lacks energy. All this happens not only due to the effect of radiation on the body, but also due to emotional experiences, changes in lifestyle and nutrition.

In order to alleviate the condition, at least slightly reduce the feeling of fatigue, you need to try to follow a routine, sleep enough time, and engage in feasible physical exercise. Don't do hard work. You may need to ask friends or loved ones for help and support.

How to recover after radiation therapy? This question is asked by almost all patients. After completing the course of treatment, the body regains its strength after some time and improves the functioning of the organs that have suffered. If you help him, the recovery period will go faster.

Usually, after a course of radiation therapy, special medications are prescribed. Strictly follow all doctor’s recommendations, take medications according to the doctor’s suggested regimen.

Even if you always want to lie down, find the strength to move, do not let your body stagnate. Movement will give you energy. Light simple exercises and walks are suitable. You need to spend as much time as possible in the fresh air.

The liquid will help the body get rid of toxins and harmful substances formed as a result of treatment. You should drink about 3 liters of liquid. It can be regular or mineral water, juices. Carbonated drinks should be excluded.

To reduce the amount of toxins entering your body, stop smoking and drinking alcohol. Drinking alcohol in small doses (usually red wine) may only be indicated in certain cases. Then it is recommended by the attending physician.

Proper nutrition will help the body “come to its senses” faster. Food should be natural, without preservatives or artificial additives. There should be no smoked meats or pickles in the diet. More vegetables and greens.
Avoid being in the sun.

Wear loose clothing made of soft fabrics to prevent chafing of the radiation site.

See your doctor regularly. Be sure to tell him about cases when something has changed in your health, pain has begun to bother you, or your temperature has risen.

Treatment of cancer for many patients becomes a real challenge due to serious side effects. However, a day comes when a person feels relief. He understands that the disease is receding and life is getting better.

Radiation therapy is a method of treating cancer using high energy that kills tumor cells. The purpose of radiotherapy is to destroy cancer cells without damaging healthy ones.

Different people have different side effects from radiation therapy and exposure to radiation. Some people have very few and they are moderate. But for other people, the side effects of radiation therapy can be very severe and severe. Unfortunately, it is impossible to predict this in advance. In addition to individual reactions, side effects depend on the type of radiation, its dose, the area of the body that is irradiated, and the patient's health.

How quickly do side effects from radiation therapy appear?

In fact, there are two types of side effects after radiation therapy - early and late. First side effects of radiation therapy, such as nausea and fatigue, as a rule, are temporary. They appear during or immediately after treatment and last for several weeks after treatment ends. But over time, these symptoms disappear. Late side effects from radiation therapy, such as heart or lung problems, may develop over several years. And often they become chronic.

The most common side effects from radiation therapy are fatigue and skin problems. Other early effects, hair loss and nausea, are usually associated with radiation exposure to a specific part of the body.

How to deal with fatigue during radiation therapy?

Fatigue due to cancer or after radiation treatment can be severe. Such that it will not allow you to lead your usual lifestyle. Fatigue may get worse on some days, and better on others.

Sometimes doctors find other causes of fatigue. And in this case it is possible to reduce this problem. The level of fatigue is often related to the patient's health status. Therefore, it is important for cancer patients to treat not only oncology, but also other concomitant diseases. Take medications prescribed by your doctor on time. Get plenty of rest, maintain a healthy level of physical activity, and eat well. Maintain a balance between stress and rest. Too much bed rest can make you even more tired. But don’t overexert yourself, rest if necessary.

Fatigue after radiation therapy is usually temporary and goes away within a few weeks of treatment.

2. Skin problems, hair loss, digestive system problems

Radiation therapy and skin problems

Another side effect of radiation therapy is that the skin looks like it has been exposed to the sun for a long time. She may be red and tanned. Sometimes swelling and blistering, dryness, flaking and itching appear. The skin may peel off as if you were sunburned.

Therefore, to alleviate the condition of the skin after radiation therapy, you need to follow several recommendations:

Do not wear tight clothing in the area affected by the radiation;
Do not rub your skin, use mild soap and warm water to wash your face;
Do not apply anything cold or hot to the affected areas unless advised by a doctor;
Consult a physician before using any ointments, oils, creams or lotions;
Avoid the sun. Wear covered clothing and ask your doctor about the best sunscreens to use;
If radiation therapy is used to treat breast cancer, do not wear a bra. Or choose cotton models without wires;
Do not bandage the affected areas unless directed by your doctor.

Skin irritation decreases several weeks after the end of radiation therapy. But even after recovery, the skin may acquire a darker shade. And in any case, after radiation therapy, you need to protect your skin from the sun for a year after the course of treatment.

Hair loss due to radiation therapy

Hair loss after radiation therapy occurs in those patients who receive radiation in the scalp. When hair falls out, it usually happens suddenly and in large quantities. Hair can fall out in whole strands. In most cases, after completion of radiation therapy, hair begins to grow again. But they may be thinner or have a different structure.

One way to minimize hair loss after radiation therapy is to trim it before treatment to reduce the weight of the hair. If your hair is falling out, you should definitely wear a hat to protect your head from the sun's rays.

Digestive system problems

Radiation therapy to the head, neck, or digestive system may cause loss of appetite. But even in this case, it is important to eat right to maintain strength and health.

Eat small meals five to six times a day. It's better than a big plate of food three times a day.
Try some new foods or, conversely, familiar and favorite dishes. Perhaps they will whet your appetite.
Snacks can help keep you going when you're hungry and don't have a chance to eat properly.

3. Oral problems, hearing problems, nausea, diarrhea, sexual problems

Oral problems

Before starting radiation therapy to the head and neck, see your dentist for a thorough examination and treatment of dental and oral problems. Radiation can cause unpleasant symptoms:

Mouth ulcers;
Lack of saliva;
Thickening of saliva;
Difficulty swallowing.

It is important to tell your doctors about these side effects of radiation therapy. Most likely, they will help you cope with your problems. Among other things, to get rid of these symptoms you need to give up spicy and sour foods, as well as alcohol and tobacco. It is helpful to brush your teeth frequently with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste.

Hearing problems

Radiation therapy can cause hearing loss. One possible cause is the thickening of the wax in the ears due to radiation. You should definitely report this problem to your doctor.

Nausea and radiation therapy

Radiation to the head and any part of the digestive tract may cause nausea and vomiting. Tell your doctor about this symptom because there are medications that can help treat the problem.

Diarrhea

Radiation therapy to the abdomen and stomach may cause diarrhea as a side effect. Diarrhea usually begins a few weeks after starting treatment. Most likely, in this case, the doctor will prescribe special medications and a special diet.

Sexual problems

Radiation therapy to the pelvis can affect fertility and sex drive. Pregnancy is contraindicated for patients undergoing radiation therapy, as the radiation can seriously harm the fetus. Radiation therapy to the pelvic area in women can stop menstrual periods and cause other menopausal symptoms.

In men, radiation to the testicular area can affect the number of sperm produced and the functionality of the sperm. This does not necessarily mean that you will not be able to have children. But in any case, the problem should be discussed with a doctor.

Radiation affecting the pelvic area can cause painful intercourse in some women. Radiation therapy can also cause scarring, which can affect the vagina's ability to stretch. In men, radiation can affect the nerves and blood vessels responsible for erections.

4. Late side effects from radiation therapy

Late side effects of radiation therapy can appear months or even years after cancer treatment. But this does not mean that these side effects occur in all patients.

What could happen? For example, scar tissue caused by radiation can affect the functioning of the heart and lungs. Radiation in the abdomen or pelvis can cause bladder, bowel and sexual problems.

Another possible side effect is recurrent cancer. There are studies that confirm that radiation therapy has a carcinogenic effect. Although not common, some people develop a second tumor after radiation therapy and treatment of a first cancer. Therefore, when choosing radiation therapy as a treatment method for oncology, it is important to talk with your doctor and identify all the possible pros and cons of this step.

Thank you

The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

Contraindications for radiation therapy

Despite the effectiveness radiotherapy ( radiation therapy) in the treatment of tumor diseases, there are a number of contraindications that limit the use of this technique.

Radiotherapy is contraindicated:

In case of dysfunction of vital organs. During radiation therapy, the body will be exposed to a certain dose of radiation, which can negatively affect the functions of various organs and systems. If the patient already has severe diseases of the cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, hormonal or other body systems, radiotherapy may aggravate his condition and lead to the development of complications.

With severe exhaustion of the body. Even with highly precise radiation therapy, a certain dose of radiation reaches and damages healthy cells. To recover from such damage, cells need energy. If the patient’s body is exhausted ( for example, due to damage to internal organs by tumor metastases), radiotherapy may cause more harm than good.
For anemia. Anemia is a pathological condition characterized by a decrease in the concentration of red blood cells ( red blood cells). When exposed to ionizing radiation, red blood cells can also be destroyed, which will lead to the progression of anemia and may cause complications.
If radiotherapy has already been performed recently. In this case, we are not talking about repeated courses of radiation treatment for the same tumor, but about the treatment of a different tumor. In other words, if a patient has been diagnosed with cancer of any organ, and radiotherapy was prescribed for its treatment, if another cancer is detected in another organ, radiotherapy cannot be used for at least 6 months after the end of the previous course of treatment. This is explained by the fact that in this case the total radiation exposure to the body will be too high, which can lead to the development of serious complications.
In the presence of radioresistant tumors. If the first courses of radiation therapy did not give absolutely no positive effect ( that is, the tumor did not decrease in size or even continued to grow), further irradiation of the body is inappropriate.
If complications develop during treatment. If during a course of radiotherapy the patient experiences complications that pose an immediate danger to his life ( for example bleeding), treatment should be discontinued.
In the presence of systemic inflammatory diseases (for example, systemic lupus erythematosus). The essence of these diseases is the increased activity of immune system cells against their own tissues, which leads to the development of chronic inflammatory processes in them. Exposure of such tissues to ionizing radiation increases the risk of complications, the most dangerous of which may be the formation of a new malignant tumor.
If the patient refuses treatment. According to current legislation, no radiation procedure can be performed until the patient gives written consent.

Compatibility of radiation therapy and alcohol

During radiation therapy, it is recommended to refrain from drinking alcohol, as this can negatively affect the general condition of the patient.

There is a popular belief that ethanol ( ethyl alcohol, which is the active component of all alcoholic beverages) is able to protect the body from the damaging effects of ionizing radiation, and therefore it should be used during radiotherapy. Indeed, a number of studies have found that the introduction of high doses of ethanol into the body increases tissue resistance to radiation by approximately 13%. This is due to the fact that ethyl alcohol disrupts the flow of oxygen into the cell, which is accompanied by a slowdown in the processes of cell division. And the slower a cell divides, the higher its resistance to radiation.

At the same time, it is important to note that in addition to minor positive effects, ethanol also has a number of negative effects. For example, an increase in its concentration in the blood leads to the destruction of many vitamins, which themselves were radioprotectors ( that is, they protected healthy cells from the damaging effects of ionizing radiation). Moreover, many studies have shown that chronic consumption of alcohol in large quantities also increases the risk of developing malignant neoplasms ( in particular tumors of the respiratory system and gastrointestinal tract). Considering the above, it follows that drinking alcoholic beverages during radiation therapy causes more harm to the body than good.

Is it possible to smoke during radiation therapy?

Smoking is strictly prohibited during radiation therapy. The fact is that tobacco smoke contains many toxic substances ( ethers, alcohols, resins and so on). Many of them have a carcinogenic effect, that is, upon contact with the cells of the human body, they contribute to the occurrence of mutations, the outcome of which can be the development of a malignant tumor. It has been scientifically proven that smokers have a significantly increased risk of developing lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, esophageal cancer and bladder cancer.

Taking into account the above, it follows that patients undergoing radiation therapy for cancer of any organ are strictly prohibited not only from smoking, but also from being near people who smoke, since carcinogens inhaled during this process can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment and contribute to the development of the tumor.

Is it possible to perform radiation therapy during pregnancy?

Radiation therapy during pregnancy can cause intrauterine damage to the fetus. The fact is that the effect of ionizing radiation on any tissue depends on the speed at which cell division occurs in this tissue. The faster the cells divide, the more pronounced the damaging effects of radiation will be. During intrauterine development, the most intense growth of absolutely all tissues and organs of the human body is observed, which is due to the high rate of cell division in them. Consequently, even when exposed to relatively low doses of radiation, the tissues of a growing fetus can be damaged, which will lead to disruption of the structure and functions of internal organs. The outcome depends on the stage of pregnancy at which radiation therapy was performed.

During the first trimester of pregnancy, the laying and formation of all internal organs and tissues occurs. If at this stage the developing fetus is irradiated, this will lead to the appearance of pronounced anomalies, which are often incompatible with further existence. This triggers a natural “protective” mechanism, which leads to the cessation of fetal activity and spontaneous abortion ( I'll have a miscarriage).

During the second trimester of pregnancy, most internal organs are already formed, so intrauterine fetal death after irradiation is not always observed. At the same time, ionizing radiation can provoke developmental anomalies of various internal organs ( brain, bones, liver, heart, genitourinary system and so on). Such a child may die immediately after birth if the resulting anomalies turn out to be incompatible with life outside the womb.

If exposure occurs during the third trimester of pregnancy, the baby may be born with certain developmental abnormalities that may persist throughout life.

Considering the above, it follows that it is not recommended to perform radiation therapy during pregnancy. If a patient is diagnosed with cancer early in pregnancy ( up to 24 weeks) and radiotherapy is required, the woman is offered an abortion ( termination of pregnancy) for medical reasons, after which treatment is prescribed. If cancer is detected at a later stage, further tactics are determined depending on the type and rate of tumor development, as well as the wishes of the mother. Most often, such women undergo surgical removal of the tumor ( if possible - for example, for skin cancer). If the treatment does not give positive results, you can induce labor or perform a delivery operation at an earlier date ( after 30 – 32 weeks of pregnancy), and then begin radiation therapy.

Is it possible to sunbathe after radiation therapy?

Sunbathing in the sun or in a solarium is not recommended for at least six months after completing a course of radiotherapy, as this can lead to the development of a number of complications. The fact is that when exposed to solar radiation, many mutations occur in skin cells, which can potentially lead to the development of cancer. However, as soon as a cell mutates, the body's immune system immediately notices this and destroys it, as a result of which cancer does not develop.

During radiation therapy, the number of mutations in healthy cells ( including in the skin through which ionizing radiation passes) can increase significantly, which is due to the negative effect of radiation on the genetic apparatus of the cell. At the same time, the load on the immune system increases significantly ( she has to deal with a large number of mutated cells at the same time). If a person begins to tan in the sun, the number of mutations may increase so much that the immune system cannot cope with its function, as a result of which the patient may develop a new tumor ( for example skin cancer).

What are the dangers of radiation therapy? consequences, complications and side effects)?

During radiotherapy, a number of complications may develop, which may be associated with the effect of ionizing radiation on the tumor itself or on healthy tissues of the body.

Hair loss

Hair loss in the scalp area is observed in most patients who have undergone radiation treatment for tumors in the head or neck area. The cause of hair loss is damage to the cells of the hair follicle. Under normal conditions, it is division ( reproduction) of these cells and determines hair growth in length.
When exposed to radiotherapy, cell division of the hair follicle slows down, as a result of which the hair stops growing, its root weakens and it falls out.

It is worth noting that when other parts of the body are irradiated ( such as legs, chest, back and so on) hair may fall out of the area of the skin through which a large dose of radiation is delivered. After the end of radiation therapy, hair growth resumes on average within a few weeks to months ( if no irreversible damage to the hair follicles occurred during treatment).

Burns after radiation therapy ( radiation dermatitis, radiation ulcer)

When exposed to high doses of radiation, certain changes occur in the skin, which in appearance resemble a burn clinic. In fact, there is no thermal damage to tissues ( like a real burn) is not observed in this case. The mechanism of burn development after radiotherapy is as follows. When skin is irradiated, small blood vessels are damaged, resulting in disruption of microcirculation of blood and lymph in the skin. The delivery of oxygen to the tissues is reduced, which leads to the death of some cells and their replacement with scar tissue. This, in turn, further disrupts the oxygen delivery process, thereby supporting the development of the pathological process.

Skin burns may appear:

Erythema. This is the least dangerous manifestation of radiation damage to the skin, in which there is dilation of superficial blood vessels and redness of the affected area.
Dry radiation dermatitis. In this case, an inflammatory process develops in the affected skin. At the same time, many biologically active substances enter the tissues from the dilated blood vessels, which act on special nerve receptors, causing a sensation of itching ( burning, irritation). In this case, scales may form on the surface of the skin.
Wet radiation dermatitis. With this form of the disease, the skin swells and may become covered with small blisters filled with clear or cloudy liquid. After opening the blisters, small ulcerations form that do not heal for a long time.
Radiation ulcer. Characterized by necrosis ( death) parts of the skin and deeper tissues. The skin in the area of the ulcer is extremely painful, and the ulcer itself does not heal for a long time, which is due to impaired microcirculation in it.
Radiation skin cancer. The most severe complication after radiation burn. The formation of cancer is facilitated by cellular mutations resulting from radiation exposure, as well as prolonged hypoxia ( lack of oxygen), developing against the background of microcirculation disorders.
Skin atrophy. It is characterized by thinning and dry skin, hair loss, impaired sweating and other changes in the affected area of the skin. The protective properties of atrophied skin are sharply reduced, resulting in an increased risk of developing infections.

Itchy skin

As mentioned earlier, exposure to radiation therapy leads to disruption of blood microcirculation in the skin area. In this case, the blood vessels dilate, and the permeability of the vascular wall increases significantly. As a result of these phenomena, the liquid part of the blood passes from the bloodstream into the surrounding tissues, as well as many biologically active substances, which include histamine and serotonin. These substances irritate specific nerve endings located in the skin, resulting in an itching or burning sensation.

To eliminate skin itching, antihistamines can be used, which block the effects of histamine at the tissue level.

Edema

The occurrence of edema in the leg area can be caused by the effects of radiation on the tissues of the human body, especially when irradiating abdominal tumors. The fact is that during irradiation, damage to the lymphatic vessels can occur, through which, under normal conditions, lymph flows from the tissues and flows into the bloodstream. Impaired lymph outflow can lead to the accumulation of fluid in the tissues of the legs, which will be the direct cause of the development of edema.

Skin swelling during radiotherapy can also be caused by exposure to ionizing radiation. In this case, there is an expansion of the blood vessels of the skin and sweating of the liquid part of the blood into the surrounding tissue, as well as a violation of the outflow of lymph from the irradiated tissue, as a result of which edema develops.

At the same time, it is worth noting that the occurrence of edema may not be associated with the effects of radiotherapy. For example, in advanced cases of cancer, metastases may occur ( distant tumor foci) in various organs and tissues. These metastases ( or the tumor itself) can compress blood and lymphatic vessels, thereby disrupting the outflow of blood and lymph from tissues and provoking the development of edema.

Pain

Pain during radiation therapy can occur in case of radiation damage to the skin. At the same time, in the area of the affected areas there is a violation of blood microcirculation, which leads to oxygen starvation of cells and damage to nerve tissue. All this is accompanied by the occurrence of severe pain, which patients describe as “burning”, “unbearable” pain. This pain syndrome cannot be eliminated with conventional painkillers, and therefore patients are prescribed other treatment procedures ( medicinal and non-medicinal). Their goal is to reduce swelling of affected tissues, as well as restore the patency of blood vessels and normalize microcirculation in the skin. This will help improve the delivery of oxygen to the tissues, which will reduce the severity or completely eliminate pain.

Damage to the stomach and intestines ( nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, diarrhea, constipation)

The cause of dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract ( Gastrointestinal tract) there may be too much radiation dose ( especially when irradiating tumors of internal organs). In this case, there is damage to the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines, as well as a violation of the nervous regulation of intestinal motility ( motor skills). In more severe cases, inflammatory processes may develop in the gastrointestinal tract ( gastritis - inflammation of the stomach, enteritis - inflammation of the small intestine, colitis - inflammation of the large intestine, and so on) or even ulcers form. The process of moving intestinal contents and digesting food will be disrupted, which can cause the development of various clinical manifestations.

Damage to the gastrointestinal tract during radiation therapy can manifest itself:

Nausea and vomiting– associated with delayed gastric emptying due to impaired gastrointestinal motility.
Diarrhea ( diarrhea) – occurs due to inadequate digestion of food in the stomach and intestines.
Constipation– can occur with severe damage to the mucous membrane of the large intestine.
Tenesmus– frequent, painful urge to defecate, during which nothing is released from the intestines ( or passing a small amount of mucus without stool).
The appearance of blood in the stool– this symptom may be associated with damage to the blood vessels of the inflamed mucous membranes.
Abdominal pain– occur due to inflammation of the mucous membrane of the stomach or intestines.

Cystitis

Cystitis is an inflammatory lesion of the mucous membrane of the bladder. The cause of the disease may be radiation therapy performed to treat a tumor of the bladder itself or other pelvic organs. At the initial stage of development of radiation cystitis, the mucous membrane becomes inflamed and swollen, but later ( as the radiation dose increases) it atrophies, that is, it becomes thinner and wrinkles. In this case, its protective properties are violated, which contributes to the development of infectious complications.

Clinically, radiation cystitis may manifest itself as a frequent urge to urinate ( during which a small amount of urine is released), the appearance of a small amount of blood in the urine, periodic increases in body temperature, and so on. In severe cases, ulceration or necrosis of the mucous membrane may occur, which may lead to the development of a new cancerous tumor.

Treatment of radiation cystitis involves the use of anti-inflammatory drugs ( to eliminate symptoms of the disease) and antibiotics ( to combat infectious complications).

Fistulas

Fistulas are pathological channels through which various hollow organs can communicate with each other or with the environment. The causes of fistula formation can be inflammatory lesions of the mucous membranes of internal organs that develop during radiation therapy. If such lesions are not treated, over time deep ulcers form in the tissues, which gradually destroy the entire wall of the affected organ. The inflammatory process can spread to the tissue of a neighboring organ. Ultimately, the tissues of the two affected organs are “fused” together, and a hole is formed between them through which their cavities can communicate.

During radiation therapy, fistulas can form:

between the esophagus and trachea ( or large bronchi);
between the rectum and vagina;
honey of the rectum and bladder;
between intestinal loops;
between the intestines and the skin;
between the bladder and the skin and so on.

Lung damage after radiation therapy ( pneumonia, fibrosis)

With prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation, inflammatory processes can develop in the lungs ( pneumonia, pneumonitis). In this case, ventilation of the affected areas of the lungs will be disrupted and fluid will begin to accumulate in them. This will manifest itself as a cough, a feeling of shortness of breath, chest pain, and sometimes hemoptysis ( producing a small amount of blood in sputum when coughing).

If these pathologies are not treated, over time this will lead to the development of complications, in particular to the replacement of normal lung tissue with scar or fibrous tissue ( that is, to the development of fibrosis). Fibrous tissue is impermeable to oxygen, as a result of which its growth will be accompanied by the development of oxygen deficiency in the body. The patient will begin to experience a feeling of lack of air, and the frequency and depth of his breathing will increase ( that is, shortness of breath will appear).

If pneumonia develops, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial drugs are prescribed, as well as agents that improve blood circulation in the lung tissue and thereby prevent the development of fibrosis.

Cough

Cough is a common complication of radiation therapy in cases where the chest is exposed to radiation. In this case, ionizing radiation affects the mucous membrane of the bronchial tree, as a result of which it becomes thinner and dry. At the same time, its protective functions are significantly weakened, which increases the risk of developing infectious complications. During the process of breathing, dust particles, which usually settle on the surface of the moist mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract, can penetrate into the smaller bronchi and get stuck there. At the same time, they will irritate special nerve endings, which will activate the cough reflex.

Expectorants may be prescribed to treat cough during radiation therapy ( increasing mucus production in the bronchi) or procedures that promote hydration of the bronchial tree ( for example, inhalations).

Bleeding

Bleeding can develop as a result of the effect of radiotherapy on a malignant tumor growing into large blood vessels. During radiation therapy, the size of the tumor may decrease, which may be accompanied by thinning and a decrease in the strength of the wall of the affected vessel. A rupture of this wall will lead to bleeding, the location and volume of which will depend on the location of the tumor itself.

At the same time, it is worth noting that the cause of bleeding can also be the effect of radiation on healthy tissue. As mentioned earlier, when healthy tissues are irradiated, blood microcirculation is disrupted. As a result, the blood vessels can dilate or even become damaged, and some of the blood will be released into the environment, which can cause bleeding. According to the described mechanism, bleeding can develop due to radiation damage to the lungs, mucous membranes of the oral cavity or nose, gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary organs, and so on.

Dry mouth

This symptom develops when tumors located in the head and neck area are irradiated. In this case, ionizing radiation affects the salivary glands ( parotid, sublingual and submandibular). This is accompanied by a disruption in the production and secretion of saliva into the oral cavity, as a result of which the mucous membrane becomes dry and hard.

Due to lack of saliva, taste perception is also impaired. This is explained by the fact that in order to determine the taste of a particular product, particles of the substance must be dissolved and delivered to the taste buds located deep in the papillae of the tongue. If there is no saliva in the oral cavity, the food product cannot reach the taste buds, as a result of which a person’s taste perception is disrupted or even distorted ( the patient may constantly experience a bitter feeling or a metallic taste in the mouth).

Dental damage

During radiation therapy for oral tumors, teeth darken and their strength is impaired, as a result of which they begin to crumble or even break. Also due to impaired blood supply to the dental pulp ( the inner tissue of the tooth, consisting of blood vessels and nerves) the metabolism in the teeth is disrupted, which increases their fragility. Moreover, disruption of saliva production and blood supply to the oral mucosa and gums leads to the development of oral infections, which also adversely affects dental tissue, contributing to the development and progression of caries.

Temperature rise

An increase in body temperature can be observed in many patients both during the course of radiation therapy and for several weeks after its completion, which is considered absolutely normal. At the same time, sometimes an increase in temperature may indicate the development of severe complications, as a result of which, if this symptom appears, it is recommended to consult with your doctor.

An increase in temperature during radiation therapy may be due to:

The effectiveness of treatment. During the destruction of tumor cells, various biologically active substances are released from them, which enter the blood and reach the central nervous system, where they stimulate the thermoregulation center. The temperature can rise to 37.5 - 38 degrees.
The effects of ionizing radiation on the body. When tissues are irradiated, a large amount of energy is transferred to them, which can also be accompanied by a temporary increase in body temperature. Moreover, a local increase in skin temperature may be due to the expansion of blood vessels in the area of irradiation and the influx of “hot” blood into them.
The main disease. With most malignant tumors, patients experience a constant increase in temperature to 37 - 37.5 degrees. This phenomenon may persist throughout the course of radiotherapy, as well as for several weeks after the end of treatment.
Development of infectious complications. When the body is irradiated, its protective properties are significantly weakened, as a result of which the risk of infections increases. The development of infection in any organ or tissue may be accompanied by an increase in body temperature to 38 - 39 degrees and above.

Decrease in leukocytes and hemoglobin in the blood

After radiation therapy, there may be a decrease in the concentration of leukocytes and hemoglobin in the patient’s blood, which is associated with the effect of ionizing radiation on the red bone marrow and other organs.

Under normal conditions, leukocytes ( cells of the immune system that protect the body from infections) are formed in the red bone marrow and lymph nodes, after which they are released into the peripheral bloodstream and perform their functions there. Red blood cells are also produced in the red bone marrow ( red blood cells), which contain the substance hemoglobin. It is hemoglobin that has the ability to bind oxygen and transport it to all tissues of the body.

Radiation therapy may expose the red bone marrow to radiation, causing cell division to slow down. In this case, the rate of formation of leukocytes and red blood cells may be disrupted, as a result of which the concentration of these cells and the level of hemoglobin in the blood will decrease. After cessation of radiation exposure, normalization of peripheral blood parameters can occur within several weeks or even months, which depends on the received dose of radiation and the general condition of the patient’s body.

Menstruation during radiation therapy

The regularity of the menstrual cycle may be disrupted during radiation therapy, depending on the area and intensity of radiation.

The period may be affected by:

Irradiation of the uterus. In this case, there may be a violation of blood circulation in the area of the uterine mucosa, as well as increased bleeding. This may be accompanied by the release of large amounts of blood during menstruation, the duration of which may also be increased.
Irradiation of the ovaries. Under normal conditions, the course of the menstrual cycle, as well as the appearance of menstruation, is controlled by female sex hormones produced in the ovaries. When these organs are irradiated, their hormone-producing function may be disrupted, as a result of which various menstrual cycle disorders may occur ( until the disappearance of menstruation).
Irradiation of the head. In the head area is the pituitary gland, a gland that controls the activity of all other glands of the body, including the ovaries. When the pituitary gland is irradiated, its hormone-producing function may be disrupted, which will lead to dysfunction of the ovaries and disruption of the menstrual cycle.

Can cancer recur after radiation therapy?

Relapse ( re-development of the disease) can be observed during radiation therapy for any form of cancer. The fact is that during radiotherapy, doctors irradiate various tissues of the patient’s body, trying to destroy all the tumor cells that could be located in them. At the same time, it is worth remembering that it is never possible to exclude the possibility of metastasis 100%. Even with radical radiation therapy performed according to all the rules, 1 single tumor cell can survive, as a result of which, over time, it will again turn into a malignant tumor. That is why, after completing the treatment course, all patients should be regularly examined by a doctor. This will allow a possible relapse to be identified in time and promptly treated, thereby prolonging a person’s life.

A high likelihood of relapse may be indicated by:

presence of metastases;
tumor growth into neighboring tissues;
low effectiveness of radiotherapy;
late start of treatment;
incorrect treatment;
exhaustion of the body;
presence of relapses after previous courses of treatment;
patient's failure to comply with doctor's recommendations ( If the patient continues to smoke, drink alcohol or be exposed to direct sunlight during treatment, the risk of cancer recurrence increases several times).

Is it possible to get pregnant and have children after radiation therapy?

The effect of radiation therapy on the possibility of bearing a fetus in the future depends on the type and location of the tumor, as well as on the dose of radiation received by the body.

The possibility of bearing and giving birth to a child may be affected by:

Irradiation of the uterus. If the purpose of radiotherapy was to treat a large tumor of the body or cervix, at the end of treatment the organ itself may be so deformed that pregnancy cannot develop.
Irradiation of the ovaries. As mentioned earlier, with tumor or radiation damage to the ovaries, the production of female sex hormones may be disrupted, as a result of which a woman will not be able to become pregnant and/or bear a fetus on her own. At the same time, hormone replacement therapy can help solve this problem.
Pelvic irradiation. Irradiation of a tumor that is not associated with the uterus or ovaries, but is located in the pelvic cavity, can also create difficulties when planning a pregnancy in the future. The fact is that as a result of radiation exposure, the mucous membrane of the fallopian tubes can be damaged. As a result of this, the process of fertilization of the egg ( female reproductive cell) sperm ( male reproductive cell) will become impossible. The problem can be solved by in vitro fertilization, during which germ cells are combined in a laboratory outside the woman’s body and then placed in her uterus, where they continue to develop.
Irradiation of the head. When irradiating the head, the pituitary gland may be damaged, which will disrupt the hormonal activity of the ovaries and other glands of the body. You can also try to solve the problem with hormone replacement therapy.
Disruption of vital organs and systems. If during radiation therapy the functions of the heart are impaired or the lungs are damaged ( for example, severe fibrosis has developed), a woman may experience difficulties during pregnancy. The fact is that during pregnancy ( especially in the 3rd trimester) the load on the cardiovascular and respiratory system of the expectant mother increases significantly, which, in the presence of severe concomitant diseases, can cause the development of dangerous complications. Such women should be constantly monitored by an obstetrician-gynecologist and take supportive therapy. They are also not recommended to give birth through the birth canal ( The method of choice is delivery via cesarean section at 36–37 weeks of pregnancy).

It is also worth noting that the time elapsed from the end of radiation therapy to the onset of pregnancy is of no small importance. The fact is that the tumor itself, as well as the treatment carried out, significantly deplete the female body, as a result of which it needs time to restore energy reserves. That is why it is recommended to plan pregnancy no earlier than six months after treatment and only in the absence of signs of metastasis or relapse ( re-development) cancer.

Is radiation therapy dangerous for others?

During radiation therapy, a person does not pose a danger to others. Even after irradiation of tissues with large doses of ionizing radiation, they ( fabrics) do not emit this radiation into the environment. An exception to this rule is contact interstitial radiotherapy, during which radioactive elements can be installed in human tissue ( in the form of small balls, needles, staples or threads). This procedure is performed only in a specially equipped room. After installation of radioactive elements, the patient is placed in a special room, the walls and doors of which are covered with radioprotective screens. He must remain in this ward throughout the entire course of treatment, that is, until the radioactive substances are removed from the affected organ ( the procedure usually takes several days or weeks).

Access of medical personnel to such a patient will be strictly limited in time. Relatives can visit the patient, but before doing so they will need to wear special protective suits that will prevent radiation from affecting their internal organs. At the same time, children or pregnant women, as well as patients with existing tumor diseases of any organs, will not be allowed into the ward, since even minimal exposure to radiation can negatively affect their condition.

Once the radiation sources are removed from the body, the patient can return to daily life the same day. It will not pose any radioactive threat to others.

Recovery and rehabilitation after radiation therapy

During radiation therapy, a number of recommendations should be followed that will save the body's strength and ensure maximum effectiveness of the treatment.

Diet ( nutrition) during and after radiation therapy

When drawing up a menu during radiation therapy, one should take into account the peculiarities of the influence of ionizing radiation on the tissues and organs of the digestive system.

During radiation therapy you should:

Eat well processed foods. During radiotherapy ( especially when irradiating the gastrointestinal tract) damage occurs to the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract - the oral cavity, esophagus, stomach, intestines. They can become thinner, inflamed, and become extremely sensitive to damage. That is why one of the main conditions for preparing food is its high-quality mechanical processing. It is recommended to avoid hard, coarse or tough foods that could damage the mucous membrane of the mouth during chewing, as well as the lining of the esophagus or stomach when swallowing a bolus. Instead, it is recommended to consume all foods in the form of cereals, purees, and so on. Also, the food consumed should not be too hot, as this can easily cause a burn to the mucous membrane.
Consume high-calorie foods. During radiation therapy, many patients complain of nausea and vomiting that occurs immediately after eating. That is why such patients are recommended to consume small amounts of food at a time. The products themselves must contain all the necessary nutrients to provide the body with energy.
Eat 5-7 times a day. As mentioned earlier, patients are advised to eat small meals every 3 to 4 hours, which will reduce the likelihood of vomiting.
Drink enough water. In the absence of contraindications ( for example, severe heart disease or edema caused by a tumor or radiation therapy) the patient is recommended to drink at least 2.5 - 3 liters of water per day. This will help cleanse the body and remove byproducts of tumor decay from the tissues.
Eliminate carcinogens from your diet. Carcinogens are substances that can increase the risk of developing cancer. During radiation therapy, they should be excluded from the diet, which will increase the effectiveness of the treatment.

Nutrition during radiation therapy

What can you use?
boiled meat; wheat porridge; oatmeal; rice porridge; buckwheat porridge; mashed potatoes; boiled chicken eggs ( 1 – 2 per day); cottage cheese; fresh milk; butter ( about 50 grams per day); baked apples; walnuts ( 3 – 4 per day); natural honey; mineral water ( without gases); jelly.	fried food ( carcinogen); fatty foods ( carcinogen); smoked food ( carcinogen); spicy food ( carcinogen); salty food; strong coffee; alcoholic drinks ( carcinogen); carbonated drinks; fast food ( including porridge and instant noodles); vegetables and fruits containing a large amount of dietary fiber ( mushrooms, dried fruits, beans and so on).

Vitamins for radiation therapy

When exposed to ionizing radiation, certain changes can also occur in the cells of healthy tissues ( their genetic apparatus may be destroyed). Also, the mechanism of cell damage is due to the formation of so-called free oxygen radicals, which aggressively affect all intracellular structures, leading to their destruction. The cell dies.

Over the course of many years of research, it was found that some vitamins have so-called antioxidant properties. This means that they can bind free radicals inside cells, thereby blocking their destructive effect. The use of such vitamins during radiation therapy ( in moderate doses) increases the body's resistance to radiation, without compromising the quality of the treatment provided.

They have antioxidant properties:

some trace elements ( for example, selenium).

Is it possible to drink red wine during radiation therapy?

Red wine contains a number of vitamins, minerals and trace elements necessary for the normal functioning of many body systems. It has been scientifically proven that drinking 1 glass ( 200 ml) red wine per day helps normalize metabolism and also improves the removal of toxic products from the body. All this undoubtedly has a positive effect on the condition of the patient undergoing radiation therapy.

At the same time, it is worth remembering that abuse of this drink can negatively affect the cardiovascular system and many internal organs, increasing the risk of complications during and after radiation therapy.

Why are antibiotics prescribed during radiation therapy?

When irradiation is carried out, cells of the immune system are affected, as a result of which the body's defenses are weakened. Along with damage to the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as the respiratory and genitourinary systems, this can contribute to the emergence and development of many bacterial infections. Antibacterial therapy may be necessary to treat them. At the same time, it is worth remembering that antibiotics destroy not only pathogenic, but also normal microorganisms that live, for example, in the intestines of a healthy person and take an active part in the digestion process. That is why, after completing a course of radiotherapy and antibiotic therapy, it is recommended to take drugs that restore intestinal microflora.

Why are CT and MRI prescribed after radiation therapy?

CT ( computed tomography) and MRI ( magnetic resonance imaging) are diagnostic procedures that allow detailed examination of certain areas of the human body. Using these techniques, you can not only identify a tumor, determine its size and shape, but also monitor the process of treatment, noting weekly certain changes in the tumor tissue. For example, with the help of CT and MRI, it is possible to detect an increase or decrease in the size of a tumor, its growth into neighboring organs and tissues, the appearance or disappearance of distant metastases, and so on.

It is worth considering that during a CT scan, the human body is exposed to a small amount of X-ray radiation. This introduces certain restrictions on the use of this technique, especially during radiation therapy, when the radiation load on the body must be strictly dosed. At the same time, MRI is not accompanied by irradiation of tissues and does not cause any changes in them, as a result of which it can be performed daily ( or even more often), presenting absolutely no danger to the patient's health.

Before use, you should consult a specialist.

Radiation therapy is one of the leading methods of treating cancer patients. Radiation therapy is especially often used after surgery as an additional component of treatment. Despite its high effectiveness in the fight against cancer, radiation therapy is a serious test for the patient’s body and subsequently requires complex rehabilitation measures.

The degree of risk of developing side effects from the use of ionizing radiation depends not only on the type of radiation and dose. The severity of side effects largely depends on the area of the body where the patient was irradiated. In total, radiation therapists and oncologists distinguish 4 degrees of risk of side effects.

Procedures that involve full body irradiation have a high risk. Irradiation of large parts of the body places a significant radiation load on the patient and results in massive doses of ionizing radiation. This leads to almost 100% development of side effects such as nausea, vomiting and constant dizziness.
Radiation therapy courses aimed at irradiating the thoracic or abdominal area have average potential. Also, ultraviolet irradiation of a patient’s blood has an average risk potential. The risk of developing side effects ranges from 60 to 80%.
Moderate or low risk. This degree of risk of developing side effects of radiation therapy is associated with either low-dose short courses of therapy, or irradiation of small areas of the body, for example: head or neck, pelvic organs. At moderate risk, side effects occur in 40-60% of cases.
Targeted radiation therapy using modern irradiation devices has minimal risk. The risk of developing nausea, vomiting and other side effects with this therapy is minimal and is less than 30%.

Undoubtedly, an important component in shaping the risk of developing complications are factors such as: the age of the cancer patient, the histological type of malignant neoplasm, its location and the stage of the oncological process. Determining the risk of developing side effects in the future plays an important role in creating a rehabilitation plan after radiation therapy.

What happens to the body when irradiated?

Ionizing radiation is destructive for all living things, as it disrupts the metabolic processes taking place in cells; tissues with a high mitotic potential are especially sensitive to irradiation. Cancer cells have particularly high mitotic activity, which is why they are primarily damaged during radiation therapy. Radiation leads to the destruction of cell DNA, which entails the cessation of cell division.

Nausea and vomiting following radiation are the most common adverse reactions. These symptoms occur because intestinal tissues have the greatest sensitivity to radiation among all types of tissues in the human body. Also, as a result of irradiation, various disturbances occur in the enzyme and protein structures of all cells, to compensate and combat which the body spends a large amount of energy.

Types of therapy

Depending on the location of the cancer process in the body, one or another type of radiation therapy is used. In radiation therapy, the following options for using ionizing radiation are distinguished:

Application method. The emitting component is applied to a specific area of the body or introduced into the natural openings of the human body. During applications, the radiation source is located in close proximity to the tumor and emits low doses.
Focused radiation therapy. It is used using the most modern linear accelerators. A high degree of beam focusing allows targeted irradiation of only the tumor area with an accuracy of millimeters. The close-focus method can significantly reduce the risk of side effects.
Intracavitary method. This technique uses special emitters that are inserted into the natural orifices of the body at the time of irradiation. In some cases, the emitting component is injected directly into the tumor tissue. This is one of the newest methods of ionizing radiation therapy.
Use of radiopharmaceuticals with selective accumulation. This option of radiation therapy is excellent for some types of cancer and allows you to avoid heavy irradiation of healthy tissue, as it selectively accumulates in atypical tumor cells. Radiotherapy with targeted accumulation of isotopes is used for cancer of the thyroid gland and larynx.

All of the above methods relate to contact types of radiotherapy, however, at present, remote methods of radiation therapy are still actively used.

With external beam radiotherapy, the radiation source is located at some distance from the patient, and high doses of radiation damage only the tumor area in a focused manner.

At the moment, the most modern and effective method of radiotherapy is stereotactic. Before a course of stereotactic therapy, a computer or magnetic resonance imaging of the tumor is performed, followed by the construction of a 3D image of the tumor. After the 3D model is formed, the data is loaded into the emitter and only the area with tumor tissue is targeted to irradiate.

Consequences of radiotherapy

All side effects that occur during the period after radiation therapy can be divided into two large groups: local and general.

Local negative effects include damage to the skin. Very often, with targeted irradiation with high doses of ionizing radiation, a burn of the skin occurs in the projection of the tumor.

Many local tissue damages in the post-irradiation period tend to become inflamed. If contact radiotherapy was carried out, then inflammatory and atrophic processes also occur at the site of fixation of the sensor. For example, with intracavitary irradiation of a patient with tracheal cancer, he may subsequently develop tracheitis, and with intravaginal irradiation in the case of cervical cancer, vulvovaginitis may develop.

Common negative effects of such therapy are severe dyspeptic symptoms, cachexia and a decrease in the body's immune reactivity.

Restoration of the body

Recovery from radiation therapy is a long and complex process that can last for months or even years. For a more effective and quick recovery, the patient is recommended to undergo comprehensive rehabilitation. Rehabilitation can be done both in a hospital setting and at home. When conducting low-dose radiotherapy courses, the patient does not need serious rehabilitation in a hospital setting. Let's take a closer look at how to recover after radiation therapy.

Recovery stages

For proper and effective recovery, immediately after completing a course of radiation therapy, you need to contact a specialist - a rehabilitation specialist, to assess the condition of the body. Once again, it should be noted that only an integrated approach to prescribing rehabilitation measures will bring the desired result.

Where you need to start is by changing your lifestyle and maintaining a daily routine. It is extremely necessary for a patient who has undergone radiation to maintain a physiological sleep and wakefulness regime, since proper rest is an important step towards restoring the damaged body. The best solution would be sanatorium treatment.

A cancer patient needs to be in the fresh air as often as possible and have some physical activity.

An important component of rehabilitation is proper nutrition. Following a diet after radiation therapy allows you to activate disrupted metabolic processes, which leads to accelerated tissue restoration. The diet must contain not only a balanced amount of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, but also a sufficient amount of macro and microelements, as well as vitamins. Eating fresh vegetables and fruits allows the body to obtain the necessary amount of antioxidants that protect cells from accelerated aging as a result of exposure to ionizing radiation. Proper and balanced nutrition after radiation therapy is the key to rapid recovery of the body!

Psychological and emotional peace. It is very important that a cancer patient who has also undergone radiotherapy is supported by loved ones and relatives. Very often, patients who have undergone treatment for malignant neoplasms experience not only an increased level of anxiety, but also a depressive state. At the time of rehabilitation, you should give up any adventures, hard physical and psycho-emotional work. Try to protect yourself from communicating with negative or pessimistic people.

Features of rehabilitation under various forms of irradiation

One of the most common locally occurring side effects of radiation therapy is tissue burns. Most often, the burn is limited to the skin and begins to appear a few days after the end of the course of radiotherapy. This side effect is especially noticeable when irradiating the neck area, so rehabilitation after radiation therapy of the larynx is necessarily accompanied by restoration of the skin in the neck area. For this, the patient is prescribed restorative creams and phytotherapeutic preparations for oral administration. Another unpleasant feature of irradiation of the larynx is a change in taste sensations. This symptom goes away on its own within a few weeks, however, during the rehabilitation period, the cancer patient must observe some restrictions. The patient must eat according to the therapeutic diet prescribed by the attending physician. Usually all spicy, salty, fried and hard foods are excluded.

Recovery after radiation therapy at home

Currently, the level of technology has increased to such an extent that radiation therapy entails fewer and fewer side effects that can be dealt with independently at home. The fact is that home walls, and not hospital walls, help the patient psychologically, which also speeds up the rehabilitation process. Following the recommendations and instructions of your doctor, as well as the help of loved ones, will help you recover from radiation therapy much faster. You can try using a variety of folk remedies at home, but be sure to consult a specialist before using any remedy.