Radiation therapy is suggested to cancer patients to kill cancer cells. As the cells in our bodies get multiplied and divided in a continuous manner, cancer cells have the tendency to multiply faster than the normal pace. Therefore, a radiation oncologist phoenix may advise you to undergo radiation therapy alone or with other supporting treatment options. However, you must know what the potential pros and cons of this therapy are so that you can mentally be prepared for this treatment.
Advantages of radiation therapy
Radiation therapy needs to be administered with the help of a radiation oncologist. A few benefits of this therapy are mentioned below:
- One of the most important benefits is that it controls the growth of cancer cells by killing them with radiation. It does not affect the entire body unlike other treatments because it only targets the cancer cells.
- It also reduces the size of the tumor so that the surgery can be performed smoothly.
- It can be beneficial in the case of certain cancer types, such as locally advanced pancreatic cancer and borderline resectable cancer.
- The patient does not need to get admitted to the hospital as it takes about 30 minutes for the therapy.
- The patient can even continue working after the therapy if he wants to.
- For advanced-level cancer, this treatment option can reduce symptoms and pain.
- It is a pain-free and safe way of treating the patient.
Disadvantages of radiation therapy
It is imperative to understand what side effects you might have to face after the therapy. They are elaborated on as follows:
- Many patients have experienced the side effects of this therapy, which include tiredness, diarrhea, and sickness.
- The nearby healthy cells may also get destroyed, which can make the patient feel weak and lethargic.
- Many patients also report skin problems after getting the therapy.
- The patient may experience tooth decay, gum problems, and soreness of the mouth.
- The side effects of chemotherapy can be managed, whereas it may be hard to control the side effects of this therapy.
- The patient might have to stay in the hospital for several weeks in case of locally advanced pancreatic cancer.
Your healthcare specialist will be able to educate you on the potential risks and benefits of this therapy. He will be the one suggesting you the right way of getting the treatment.
