Radiation therapy is a form of cancer treatment that uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with other cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and surgery. Mesothelioma and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) are two types of cancer that are commonly treated with radiation therapy. While radiation therapy can be effective in killing cancer cells, it also has several potential side effects, which we will discuss in detail in this answer.
Fatigue: One of the most common side effects of radiation therapy is fatigue. Radiation therapy can cause the body to produce less red blood cells, which can lead to anemia and fatigue. Patients may feel tired and weak during and after treatment, and may need to rest more than usual.
Skin changes: Radiation therapy can cause skin changes in the area being treated. This can range from mild redness and irritation to blistering and peeling. Skin changes can be uncomfortable, but they usually heal after treatment is over.
Nausea and vomiting: Radiation therapy to the abdomen or chest can cause nausea and vomiting. This is because radiation can irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines, leading to nausea and vomiting. Medications can be given to help manage these side effects.
Loss of appetite: Radiation therapy can cause loss of appetite, which can lead to weight loss. Patients may need to eat smaller, more frequent meals and focus on high-calorie, high-protein foods to maintain their weight.
Hair loss: Radiation therapy can cause hair loss in the area being treated. This can include the scalp, face, and neck. Hair loss is usually temporary and hair will typically grow back after treatment is over.
Mouth and throat problems: Radiation therapy to the head and neck can cause mouth and throat problems, such as dry mouth, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing. Patients may need to drink plenty of fluids and use special mouthwashes to help manage these side effects.
Respiratory problems: Radiation therapy to the chest can cause respiratory problems, such as shortness of breath and coughing. This is because radiation can irritate the lungs and cause inflammation. Patients may need to use special breathing exercises or medications to help manage these side effects.
Heart problems: Radiation therapy to the chest can also cause heart problems, such as inflammation of the heart or damage to the heart muscle. This is because radiation can affect the blood vessels and tissues around the heart. Patients may need to have regular heart monitoring during and after treatment.
Radiation pneumonitis: Radiation pneumonitis is a rare but serious side effect of radiation therapy to the chest. It is an inflammation of the lung tissue that can cause shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain. Treatment may include medications to reduce inflammation and oxygen therapy.
Second cancers: Radiation therapy can increase the risk of developing a second cancer years after treatment. This is because radiation can damage DNA in healthy cells, potentially causing them to become cancerous. The risk of developing a second cancer is generally low, but patients will need to have regular follow-up care to monitor for any signs of cancer.
In conclusion, radiation therapy is a common form of cancer treatment for mesothelioma and small cell lung cancer. While it can be effective in killing cancer cells, it also has several potential side effects, including fatigue, skin changes, nausea and vomiting, hair loss, mouth and throat problems, respiratory problems, heart problems, radiation pneumonitis, and an increased risk of developing a second cancer. Patients should discuss these potential side effects with their healthcare team and work together to manage any side effects that may occur.
