Radio frequency treatment, or radiation therapy, is a common treatment form administered either singularly or in combination with other treatments like surgery, chemotherapy and hormone therapy to treat cancer patients. Radiation therapy involves exposing the malignant cells to high energy rays like gamma rays or X-rays to destroy the cancerous cells.
Types
Radiation is generally of two forms, external beam radio frequency and internal therapy. External beam therapy involves irradiating the cancer cells using an external source of radiation. Internal therapy involves positioning radioactive seeds close to the malignant cells to damage them.
Time Frame
Duration for administering radiation therapy varies, depending on the spread of the cancer cells within the body. Nonetheless, it is generally administered for an hour twice a week for about three months.
Benefits
Radio frequency is beneficial for elderly patients and others who cannot undergo surgery for the removal of the cancer.
Effects
Hair loss, appetite loss, tiredness, fatigue and skin irritations are common side effects of radiation therapy.
Warning
You may be advised to reduce exposure to sun rays and pollutants while undergoing radiation therapy.
Tags: radiation therapy, therapy involves, cancer cells, malignant cells