How Radiation Therapy Works: Everything You Need to Know

If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with cancer, you may be wondering about the treatment options available. One common treatment is radiation therapy, a method that uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells. But how exactly does radiation therapy work? Can it help cure cancer?

In this blog post, we’ll break down how radiation therapy works, what you can expect during treatment, and why consulting a radiation oncologist in Hyderabad is crucial to achieving the best results. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or are preparing for treatment, this guide is for you.

What is Radiation Therapy?

Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, is a medical treatment that uses high-energy radiation to kill or shrink cancer cells. Unlike chemotherapy, which affects the entire body, radiation therapy is more targeted. It focuses on the tumor or cancerous area, reducing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Radiation therapy can be used alone or in combination with other treatments like surgery or chemotherapy. It’s a common treatment for cancers such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, and more.

How Does Radiation Therapy Work?

Radiation therapy works by damaging the DNA inside the cancer cells. This damage prevents the cells from growing and dividing. Over time, the cells die off. However, healthy cells are also affected, but they tend to recover more effectively than cancer cells, which have a higher rate of division and are less capable of repairing DNA damage.

There are two main types of radiation therapy:

1. External Beam Radiation Therapy: This is the most common type of radiation therapy. It uses a machine called a linear accelerator (or LINAC) to direct high-energy radiation beams at the tumor from outside the body. You’ll lie on a treatment table, and the radiation oncologist in Hyderabad will position you carefully to ensure the radiation is aimed precisely at the tumor.

2. Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy): In this method, radioactive material is placed inside or very close to the tumor. Brachytherapy is commonly used for cancers of the prostate, cervix, and breast. It delivers a more concentrated dose of radiation directly to the cancer cells, reducing the risk to surrounding healthy tissue.

How Long Does Radiation Therapy Take?

The duration of radiation therapy depends on several factors, including the type of cancer, its location, and the goal of the treatment. Typically, a patient might undergo radiation therapy for about 3 to 6 weeks. Treatments are usually given five days a week, with weekends off.

Each treatment session typically lasts only a few minutes. The time spent in the treatment room might be a bit longer due to the need for careful positioning and adjustment of the equipment.

When is Radiation Therapy Used?

Radiation therapy can be used in several ways, depending on the patient’s condition:

• Curative Treatment: If the tumor is localized and has not spread, radiation therapy can be used as a primary treatment to try and cure the cancer. For example, early-stage breast cancer or prostate cancer can often be treated effectively with radiation alone or in combination with surgery.

• Adjuvant Treatment: After surgery, radiation can be used to kill any remaining cancer cells. This is especially important for cancers like breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers, where even small numbers of remaining cells could lead to a recurrence.

• Palliative Treatment: In cases where cancer has spread (metastasized), radiation may not cure the cancer but can be used to shrink tumors and relieve symptoms such as pain, bleeding, or difficulty swallowing. For example, radiation therapy can help shrink a tumor pressing on the spinal cord or other vital organs.

Benefits of Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy has several key benefits:

• Targeted Treatment: Radiation can be directed precisely at the tumor, minimizing damage to nearby healthy tissues.

• Non-Invasive: Unlike surgery, radiation therapy doesn’t require cutting or incisions.

• Pain Relief: Radiation therapy can help reduce pain and other symptoms associated with cancer.

• Improved Quality of Life: By shrinking tumors or controlling cancer growth, radiation therapy can help patients live longer and feel better during treatment.

Side Effects of Radiation Therapy

While radiation therapy is generally safe and effective, it can come with side effects. Most side effects are temporary, and your radiation oncologist will work closely with you to manage them. Common side effects include:

• Fatigue: Many patients experience tiredness during treatment, which may last for weeks after treatment ends.

• Skin Irritation: Radiation can cause skin changes in the treated area, such as redness or dryness.

• Hair Loss: If the radiation is targeting the scalp or areas with hair, you may experience hair loss in the treated area.

• Nausea and Vomiting: This can occur if radiation affects the abdomen or gastrointestinal tract.

These side effects are usually manageable, and your radiation oncologist in Hyderabad will guide you on ways to reduce their impact.

What to Expect During Radiation Therapy

1. Consultation with a Radiation Oncologist: Your journey begins with a consultation. The radiation oncologist will evaluate your condition, review your medical history, and determine the best course of treatment. You may undergo imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs to map the tumor and plan your treatment.

2. Treatment Planning: Once the tumor’s location is confirmed, the radiation oncologist will create a treatment plan that maximizes the radiation dose to the tumor while minimizing exposure to healthy tissue. This step is crucial for the effectiveness and safety of radiation therapy.

3. Simulation: Before the actual treatment begins, a simulation session is held to determine the exact position and angle of radiation delivery. During this session, you may be asked to wear a special mask or mold to help keep you in the same position throughout treatment.

4. Radiation Delivery: On the day of the treatment, you’ll be positioned on the treatment table, and the radiation machine will be adjusted to focus the beams precisely on the tumor. You won’t feel any pain during radiation therapy, but you must stay still during the treatment.

5. Follow-Up Care: After radiation therapy, follow-up visits with your radiation oncologist in Hyderabad will be essential to track your recovery and monitor for any signs of recurrence.

Key Tips for Radiation Therapy Patients

• Follow your radiation oncologist’s instructions: Stick to the treatment schedule and follow all aftercare advice carefully.

• Protect your skin: Use gentle skincare products and avoid sun exposure on the treated area.

• Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet: This can help reduce fatigue and support your immune system during treatment.

• Rest: Listen to your body and take breaks when you feel tired.

Can Radiation Therapy Cure Cancer?

In some cases, radiation therapy can cure cancer, especially when used for localized cancers in the early stages. However, for advanced cancers, radiation therapy may not cure the disease but can help control its growth and alleviate symptoms. The effectiveness of radiation therapy largely depends on the cancer’s type, stage, and location.

It’s important to consult with a radiation oncologist in Hyderabad to discuss your individual treatment plan. They can provide a personalized approach and guide you through the process.

Understanding how radiation therapy works and what to expect can help you make informed decisions about your cancer treatment. While radiation therapy may not be the right choice for everyone, it has proven to be a valuable tool in curing or managing many types of cancer. If you’re considering radiation therapy, consult a skilled radiation oncologist in Hyderabad to discuss your options.

Have you or a loved one undergone radiation therapy for cancer? Share your experience or ask any questions in the comments below—we’re here to help!