While undergoing radiation, the symptoms of cancer are often relieved and you will actually feel better. However, because of the effects of radiation on your normal tissue, you may experience certain side effects. These will depend on the part of the body being treated, the amount of radiation you are given, and your body's individual response. Most people receiving therapy lead normal lives and can continue work during their treatment. Most of the side effects from your treatments will gradually diminish within a few weeks after therapy has been completed.
Most patients experience some degree of fatigue during the course of their treatments.
This may persist for a few weeks after the end of the therapy. Please remember that this fatigue has nothing to do with your disease and that it is the most common side effect of your treatment, one which will gradually disappear. Before your treatment begins, the radiation oncologist and the nurse will discuss what other possible side effects, if any, might occur and what measures you can take to control or relieve them. They are also available every day to evaluate any side effects you may be having or to answer any questions you have. It is important for both men and women to practice birth control during the course of treatment.