Most side effects are not serious, and disappear quickly. The most common are fatigue and skin changes. Most people find they can go through radiation therapy while maintaining their normal work schedule and lifestyle. During the post-surgical period and time of radiation therapy treatments, the body uses a lot of energy healing itself. Stress related to illness, daily trips for treatment, and the effects of radiation on normal cells may contribute to fatigue.
Most people begin to feel tired after a few weeks of radiation therapy.
It is helpful to limit activities, to use leisure time in a restful way, and to get more sleep at night. The high energy x-rays used in modern machines tend to spare the skin from significant damage. Nonetheless, the energy waves used in radiation therapy have an effect on the skin that resembles the effect of sunlight. Some skin irritation and redness, similar to a sunburn, may develop by the third or fourth week of treatment. Consult with your physician before using any lotions or skincare products.