Is radiotherapy painful, and does it make a patient radioactive?
External-beam radiation itself is usually painless, although positioning or later treatment effects can cause discomfort. External-beam treatment does not make the body radioactive. Internal radiation and radioactive medicines may require different, individualised precautions.
Details
Why can discomfort develop later?
Effects depend on the treated area, dose and accompanying treatments. Skin, mouth, throat or bowel irritation and fatigue are possible, but not every patient develops every effect. Some effects appear later, so ask about site-specific follow-up.
What can help?
Tell the team before treatment if lying in position is painful; supports or suitable pain relief may help. Follow skin-care and dietary instructions. Check before applying creams or herbal products to the treated area, and do not scrub treatment markings or stop sessions yourself.
When to contact the team promptly
Inability to swallow fluids, uncontrolled pain, repeated vomiting or new breathlessness needs prompt advice. Obtain written safety instructions if receiving an internal radioactive source. Precautions for one form of radiotherapy do not automatically apply to all others.
Related reading: Is chemotherapy painful, and when should I contact the cancer care team?.