Expected side effects

The side effects of cancer treatment vary from person to person. Some people may have a number of side effects while others have very few or none at all. Expected side effects depend on the type of cancer and types of treatment used, and whether the aim is to cure or manage the cancer.

Reducing and managing the symptoms of cancer treatment is an important part of your care plan. Often more than one type of treatment will be used. These may include radiotherapy, surgery, chemotherapy and hormone treatment. Your care team will discuss the positive and negative aspects of each with you, and support you throughout your treatment.

Side effects of radiotherapy occur when healthy tissue is damaged as well as the tumour being targeted. The side effects are caused by inflammation of this tissue. Cancer Partners UK uses the latest advancements in radiotherapy including intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and image guided radiotherapy (IGRT) to accurately target the tumour and avoid healthy tissue, increasing the effectiveness of treatment and reducing side effects.

Side effects of radiotherapy depend on the area being treated and are generally experienced towards the end of the course, and sometimes for a few weeks afterwards. We have listed below the expected side effects of radiotherapy, together with some advice on reducing and managing them.

Potential side effects of radiotherapy

Sore, sensitive or discoloured skin

A reaction can sometimes develop where the radiotherapy beam passes through the skin. The extent of reaction depends on skin type and the area being treated. Some people find the skin starts to go darker or turn pink towards the end of the course, while others find the skin becomes dry and itchy with the potential to breakdown slightly. It is generally advised to avoid using perfumed products within the treatment area, to apply aqueous cream (a light non greasy moisturiser) regularly, to avoid extremes of temperature, and to be gentle when washing.

Fatigue

Tiredness can be a symptom that does vary from patient to patient. It is important to eat healthily, drink lots of water and rest when necessary. Light exercise to build up energy levels can also help.

Hair loss

Radiotherapy only causes hair loss in the area being treated. Just the areas where the radiotherapy beam enters and exits the body will be affected. How much hair is lost will depend on the size of the area being treated, the area receiving treatment and the dose prescribed. It may take a few months, but hair usually grows back after treatment. If you are worried about potential hair loss resulting from your treatment, please feel free to talk to a member of your care team about your concerns.

Difficulty eating and drinking

Treatment affecting the mouth, throat or esophagus, may result in swelling and soreness, making it difficult or painful to eat. Try to avoid foods that are hot, spicy or particularly abrasive to swallow. A soft or liquid diet may be better, and perhaps eat little and often rather than big meals. Avoid strong alcohol and drink plenty of non-acidic fluids. If you are having problems eating or drinking, talk to your care team and arrangements can be made to see a dietitian.

Nausea and sickness

Nausea and sickness can happen if the stomach is being treated. It can also occur indirectly through treatment to other parts of the body. Anti-sickness tablets will normally be prescribed, but individual dietary advice can also be useful. It is important to remain well hydrated and inform your care team if you do feel sick, so they can help you.

Changes to bowel and urinary habits

Radiotherapy can make you need to pass water more often and sometimes more urgently. It is still important to drink plenty of fluid unless a member of your care team asks you not to. Treatment specific to the abdomen or pelvis can also result in diarrhea or constipation. Changing your dietary intake of fibre may help. If you are having problems with your bowel movements, talk to your care team and arrangements can be made to see a dietitian.