Radiation treatment is carried out employing a giant machine called a linear accelerator. The machine delivers a minute quantity of high-energy radiation which kills the cancerous cells.
The radiation causes only the absolute minimal damage to peel tissue and stop cancer-infected cells from reproducing. Radiation treatment has shown to hugely improve survival rates in women with breast cancer.
Radiation treatment can be used for many reasons when related to breast cancer. Following a mastectomy or lumpectomy, the treatment can be used in conjunction with chemical treatment to lower the risk of cancer growing back.
Radiation treatment can also be used if a surgeon feels that the removal of a cancer isn't entirely in the best interests of a patient's health. Treatment can also help if cancer has spread into the bone structure or the brain, and can also be used if the cancer really reoccurs.
The treatment process when undergoing radiation therapy is pain-free, but some patient can experience side effects. These may include dryness and discomfort of the skin that may be treated by your general practice if it occurs. However, it can take up to twelve months for the effects to absolutely heal.
There is also the inescapable complication of fatigue which routinely occurs around a fortnight into treatment. Fatigue can last a month after treatment is completed, but can be countered by getting more rest and having early nights.
Blood will need to be checked regularly for reduced counts and some girls will experience a sore throat or mouth if treatment is carried out around that particular area.
There are significant lifestyle changes that may have to be made while radiation treatment is taking place. Rest is insistent and close attention needs to be paid to a healthful diet.
Regular blood tests will be necessary, and visits to the doctor should be made if unusual symptoms like coughing, sweating, fever or agony happen.
The affected area should receive additional care and be treated softly. Tight garments round the area should be avoided to stop rubbing.
It's also crucial to moisturise the affected area after radiation therapy is complete and the treated area must also be kept out of direct daylight.
The advances in radiation treatment means long term complications are quite rare but they do still occur. Rib splinters, lung inflammation, damage to the heart, scarring and the association of other tumours like sarcoma are all possible but not as common as they once were.
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