Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymph cells, otherwise known as lymphocytes. Treatment for lymphoma varies depending on the state of your health, the type of lymphoma you have, and the stage of your cancer. Although there are several treatments for lymphoma, the most popular form is radiation treatment.
Understanding Radiation Treatment
Radiation treatment, also known as radiotherapy, uses high energy x-rays to destroy diseased cancer cells and shrink tumors while avoiding the surrounding healthy cells. Radiation has been known to cure cancer in many instances, control the growth of it in others, and relieve pain in some. Radiotherapy works by destroying the ability of the diseased cells to continue growing. After their destruction, these cells are naturally removed from the body. The tricky part is not to destroy any healthy cells at the same time, thereby necessitating the expertise of a radiation oncologist to perform the treatment as carefully as possible.
What to Expect at During Treatment
After your doctor determines what stage of lymphoma you have and the exact location of the diseased cells through biopsy results, you will begin radiation treatment shortly thereafter. In general, treatment lasts from four to six weeks and is given daily, excluding weekends. Although the first treatment may take between 30 to 60 minutes in order to properly adjust the machines for your particular case, all treatments thereafter will likely only take 10 to 15 minutes. Expect to change into a hospital gown with each treatment and lie very still on a table under a machine for the duration of the treatment. Special shields may be placed between you and the radiation machine in order to protect healthy tissues from receiving radiation. There may also be devices used to keep your body from moving during the treatment. You will be alone in the room as the treatment is performed, but the radiation staff can see and hear you if you ever need assistance. The treatment can be stopped at any time if the need arises. The radiation machines are quite large and make noises as they move to deliver radiation to different areas of the body. You will not feel or see the radiation as it is happening and should not feel any pain while the treatment is being given.
Possible Side Effects
Side effects vary from person to person depending on a number of factors, including the dose of radiation that was used, the area of your body that was treated, and whether or not you are simultaneously receiving chemotherapy as well. As with many cancer treatments, hair loss in the areas treated is common. Treatment to the head or mouth can cause dryness in your mouth, which often leads to tooth decay. Be sure to see a dentist if you notice any tooth sensitivity during radiation treatment. You may also experience fatigue, sore throat, upset stomach, loose bowels or various forms of skin irritation. All of these side effects usually subside after treatment is over.
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