- There are two forms of radiation therapy: internal or brachytherapy, and external radiation therapy. Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive seeds near the cancerous tissues. External radiation focuses high-powered rays on the malignant cells.
- The time frame for radiation varies, depending on the metastasis of the cancer within the body. In most cases, radiation therapy is administered daily for close to two months.
- Rashes, hair loss, reduction in appetite, tiredness and fatigue are some of the common side effects of radiation therapy.
- Radiation therapy is especially beneficial to elderly people, and to patients suffering from heart or other chronic disorders who cannot undergo surgery for removal of the cancerous cells.
- While undergoing radiation therapy, avoid excessive exposure to the sun's rays and to pollutants. Also quit smoking and reduce your intake of alcoholic drinks, doctors recommend.