Radiation

 

Radiation is the use of x-rays for the treatment of cancer. It destroys the ability of tumor cells to grow and multiply. There are many forms of radiation, your radiation oncologist will prescribe the type and amount of treatment that best suits your child's needs. Radiation is designed to kill the tumor cells, while allowing normal cells to heal.

 

Radiation Therapy Side Effects

Mouth or Neck

• Mouth sores/ sores in the throat
• Dry mouth
• Loss of taste
• Sore throat
• Hoarse voice
• Difficulty swallowing
• Increased incidence of dental cavities

Head

• Hair loss
• Increased sleepiness
• Nausea

Activity Level

Some may experience increased fatigue during radiation therapy.  Encourage naps, frequent rest breaks, and quiet activities. 

Skin

• Dry skin in treatment area
• Red or darkened skin in the treatment area
• Skin breakdown – notify radiation oncologist if this occurs

Pain

Some of the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation, such as mouth sores or digestive problems, can cause pain or discomfort.  You should not give your child products containing aspirin or ibuprofen because they can increase bleeding problems and irritate the stomach.  You can give your child Tylenol for minor episodes of pain.

Read labels of over-the-counter medicines carefully, and if they contain aspirin, salicylates, or ibuprofen, do not give them to your child.  Pepto-Bismol is one example of an over-the-counter medicine that has aspirin in it.  As a general rule, you should check with your child’s doctor before giving your child any medicine not ordered by the doctor.

Exposure to the Sun

It is a good practice for everybody to wear sunscreen, but it is essential for a child receiving chemotherapy and radiation.  Radiation therapy, Bactrim therapy, and certain chemotherapy medications cause increased sensitivity to the sun.  A child can experience very severe sunburn in a short amount of time.  The following suggestions will decrease the occurrence of severe sunburn.

• Limit the amount of time your child spends in direct sun.
• Encourage your child to play in shaded areas.
• Have your child wear protective clothing (remember to keep the head covered).
• Use a factor 30 or greater sunscreen and reapply often, especially when sweating or swimming.

Helpful Hints During Radiation

• Avoid soap to the radiation area, only shampoo occasionally with mild baby shampoo or a natural/organic shampoo.
• Avoid soap, lotion, creams, or powder to the radiations area, unless directed by the radiation oncologist
• Do not apply heat to treatment areas
• Do not apply ice to treatment areas
• Avoid exposure to direct sunlight on the treatment area
• Do not scratch or rub the treatment area

 

*Information provided by Florida Hospital Cancer Institute

Last update Nov. 1, 2008