What are side effects of RT?
Because radiation usually passes through some healthy tissue on its way to the tumour, normal cells can be damaged. This is what causes side effects. These side effects can be short or long term.
Generally, you will only have side effects in the area that is treated with radiation. However, fatigue (tiredness) can happen to all patients having radiation treatment no matter what area is being treated.
Your radiation oncologist, nurse, or radiation therapists will help you to manage your side effects. Check out our Coping with Cancer section also for help with nutrition, emotional, financial and practical support, how to deal with symptoms and side effects, and information about palliative care.