Radiation therapy is another treatment option for lung cancer patients. This therapy may be used alone but can be most useful, as with other types of cancers like breast cancer, when combined with surgery or chemotherapy. The procedure involves using high energy X-rays to kill cancer cells and to shrink cancerous tumors. This can be done by machine or by inserting radioactive medications placed in thin plastic tubes into the cancerous area in order to kill the surrounding cancer cells.

An Effective Treatment

Radiation is most effective following surgery for lung cancer, including surgery for type IIA to IIB, cancers with lymph node involvement. Following these surgeries with radiation therapy may help to reduce the risk of recurring cancer. However, the overall survival rate of lung cancer patients at this stage is still risky as the cancer may have already progressed to other areas of the body. If it has not, though, radiation can be an extremely effective type of treatment.

Like any form of treatment for cancer, radiation therapy does include certain side effects. These side effects can include red, itchy, or dry skin. Patients may also experience a burning sensation on their skin. Patients undergoing radiation therapy should talk with their doctors before using any lotions, deodorants, or perfumes that may further irritate their skin. Patients should also invest in wearing loose fitting cotton clothes to allow their skin to breathe and recover from the treatment. Scratchy materials including sheets can irritate the already sensitive skin.

In more uncommon cases, radiation therapy can have complications with the heart, lungs, or breathing. However, these cases are rare and most people tolerate radiation therapy fairly well despite their discomfort. Radiation therapy, like chemotherapy, can also leave patients feeling weak, fatigued, and tired. During therapy it is wise to rest when needed and to let how you feel dictate your daily activities. While some exercise is always beneficial, patients who are already fatigued should not wear themselves out. Radiation therapy can be effective as a follow up treatment for lung cancer, but patients still need to remain under constant vigilance for any complications.