Frequently Asked Questions
What are the side effects?
Radiotherapy is a local treatment, meaning the side effects will depend on the area being treated. Patients are given information sheets to inform them of the expected side effects based on the treatment location.
Does radiation therapy cause hair loss?
Radiotherapy has no effect on the scalp or hair, except in the case of cranial radiotherapy, which may cause hair loss localized to the area treated.
The radiation used during your treatment is invisible and will not cause discomfort. However, lasers are used to position you properly, and if the laser points toward your eyes during positioning, it is recommended to close your eyes for comfort. You can also choose to keep your eyes closed for the entire duration of the session if you prefer.
Fatigue is one of the common side effects of radiation therapy. It may be caused by anemia, loss of appetite, depression, or toxic substances produced as cancer cells break down and die. Radiation therapy requires the body to use more energy to heal, so rest might not always relieve the fatigue. Frequent trips to receive treatment may also contribute to tiredness. Fatigue typically decreases gradually once the treatment is completed.
It is not mandatory to be accompanied, but if you feel too tired to drive, consider having a friend or relative accompany you, or using a VSL (ambulance service). Having a loved one with you may be comforting during your treatment. Note that your companion cannot enter the treatment room or cabin.
Do I need to follow a special diet during treatment?
Certain treatments, especially those targeting the abdomen and pelvis, may require a special diet. Your doctor will inform you during your pre-treatment consultation if a specific diet is necessary.
Are there any precautions to take before, during, and after treatment?
Depending on your treatment, specific precautions may be given to minimize side effects. These instructions will be provided by your doctors and radiology technicians.
Do I need to fast before my treatment?
Radiation therapy does not require fasting. Depending on your treatment, you may be asked to drink fluids before your session or follow a specific diet.
What happens during a radiation therapy session?
The technicians will position you on the treatment table according to the position determined during the initial alignment. They will use your tattoo marks, which were placed during the setup, to ensure accurate treatment of the area. The radiation source will be directed to the region being treated.
Each day, a control image will be taken using the treatment machine to check the positioning of the treatment area. This image is for positioning verification only and cannot be used for diagnostic purposes.
It is essential not to move during treatment to ensure precision.
The technicians will leave the treatment room but will monitor you via cameras in the room.
They can also hear you through an intercom system during the session.
Radiation therapy does not prevent you from driving. However, if you feel too tired to drive, it is advisable to have someone accompany you or use a VSL.
The radiation therapy itself lasts only a few minutes, but your total time in the treatment room is around 10 minutes. The first session may take longer due to additional checks and preparations before starting the treatment.
Radiation therapy is painless, and it does not make you radioactive. The radiation is invisible, and you should not feel discomfort during the session.
The number of treatment sessions varies depending on the case. Treatments generally occur Monday through Friday. The total number of sessions will be determined at the start of your treatment and is specific to your condition and individual needs.
To ensure the treatment is as effective as possible, it is crucial not to miss any scheduled sessions. Once your radiation therapy begins, it is important to complete all sessions as planned.
When will I receive my treatment appointments?
Your treatment appointments will be provided every Friday for the following week. Appointment times are scheduled based on the technical requirements of each treatment, and it will not be possible to change your appointment times except for urgent reasons such as work commitments or unavoidable medical appointments. We encourage you to inform us of any unavailability as early as possible.
Please note that your appointments may be changed at the last minute in case the treatment machine is unavailable.