![]() ![]() ![]() It is like getting an X-ray.Įxternal beam radiation is an outpatient treatment. You will not feel the radiation as it is being delivered. That way, it delivers the precise dose of radiation to the exact point on your body. The machine is adjusted just for you by your care team. ![]() It delivers radiation from several angles. This is called a linear accelerator.Īs you lie still, the linear accelerator moves around you. A large machine moves around you, sending beams of radiation into precise points in your body.Įxternal beam radiation therapy uses a machine that aims high-energy beams into your body. What you can expectĭuring external beam radiation therapy, you lie on a table. When this is precise, there is less harm to healthy cells around the cancer. Planning is important to get the dose and focus of the radiation beams right. This is based on the kind of cancer you have, your general health and goals for your treatment. During these scans, you will lie in the treatment position wearing the mask or mold made for you.Īfter planning, your care team will decide the type and dose of radiation you'll get. Your radiation therapy team will use scans to map out your custom radiation plan. This might be done with a marker or with small permanent tattoos. Next, your radiation therapy team will mark the place on your body that will get the radiation. You might be fitted for a body mold or mesh face mask to help keep you in place. Cushions and props will help hold you in the right way so you can be still. To practice, you'll lie down on the same type of table that will be used during your treatment. You must lie still during treatment, so being comfortable is important. During simulation, your radiation therapy team will help you find a comfortable position. They'll find the exact spot on your body to make sure the right amount of radiation goes where it's needed. If you decide to move forward, your care team will carefully plan your treatment. Together you can consider whether radiation therapy is right for you. This doctor is called a radiation oncologist. How you prepareīefore external beam radiation therapy, you will meet with a doctor who specializes in using radiation to treat cancer. Ask your provider about any side effects that could happen after treatment, both short term and long term. It can be caused by radiation or other treatments. Very rarely, a new cancer may develop years or decades after cancer treatment. Sometimes side effects develop after treatment. Hair loss at treatment site (sometimes permanent), skin irritation at treatment site, fatigueĭry mouth, thickened saliva, difficulty swallowing, sore throat, changes in the way food tastes, nausea, mouth sores, tooth decayĭifficulty swallowing, cough, shortness of breathĭiarrhea, bladder irritation, frequent urination, sexual dysfunction After treatment, most side effects will go away. If you do have side effects, they can be controlled during treatment. It depends on which part of your body is getting the radiation and how much is used. You may or may not have side effects from radiation therapy. ![]()
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