What are the side effects?

The following side effects may happen with radiation treatment:

Fatigue

For most people the tiredness they feel is mild. Some people may need to change their daily routine to help with their feelings of fatigue. Fatigue may be caused by the radiation, travel, and/or changes in daily routine. This is different for everyone but may last a few months following your treatment. To help with tiredness try light exercise, rest more frequently, ask for help, and eat a well balanced diet. Fatigue is common for cancer patients.

Loss of appetite 

You may not feel like eating while you are on treatment. It is important that you keep eating a well balanced diet to help with side effects and to give you energy. We encourage you to visit the Nutrition Resource Centre (T-wing, ground floor, room 261) for advice. Things that can also help include eating smaller meals more often, eating when you are hungry, continuing to exercise, asking for help to prepare meals and eating nutritious snacks. You may talk to a registered dietitian who can provide more information and advice or if you have any questions or concerns about your diet. They can be reached through the Patient and Family Nutrition Resource Centre on the ground floor of the Odette Cancer Centre or you can call them at 416-480-4623.

Skin reactions

Skin reactions may appear as a reddening of the skin. Sometimes your skin may get dry and flaky. Things to help skin reactions include being careful when washing the treatment area, protecting your skin from the sun or cold wind, and using a non-scented, water based and lanolin free lotion or cream (eg. Glaxal, Lubriderm, Vaseline Intensive Care). You will be given more information on caring for your skin once you begin your treatment. Some people may have little or no skin reaction.