Calvary Health Care

You will be reviewed regularly during your treatment by your team.

Please report any concerns to the triage nurse or to the radiation therapists on your treatment unit prior to having your treatment.

We are here to support you whilst you undergo radiation therapy. If you have medical conditions that are not cancer related please continue to seek advice from your general practitioner.

If at any time you feel you are very unwell, you should not wait until your next radiation therapy appointment. Please go to your nearest emergency department.

Radiation therapy side effects vary from person to person. The following are some common side effects.

Skin reaction

During radiation therapy the skin in the treatment area may become red and sore. It is important not to use anything on your skin which may cause irritation. Use only the products advised by the staff.

Please discuss any need for dressings with the triage nurse.

Hair loss may occur in the treatment area.

Do:

• Use mild, unscented, non-alcohol based soap.

• Use warm water, rinse and pat dry with a soft towel.

• Use a moisturiser, like sorbolene with 10% glycerine, which does not contain perfumes or additives and is a thin lotion not a thick cream.

• Avoid sun exposure to the treatment area, wear a wide brimmed hat.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing.

• Avoid things that will irritate or abrade the skin e.g. wet shaving – use an electric shaver.

Do not:

• Use any tape or bandaids on the treatment area.

• Rub, scrub or scratch the skin in the treatment area.

• Use any creams, lotions, powders etc. unless recommended by your treatment team.

• Use hot packs, hot water bottles, hot water, cold packs or ice packs on the treatment area.