Radiotherapy Tips

This is not a list of recommendations - just a few things which members of the group have found helpful.

Macmillan produce a very useful booklet about radiotherapy - you can get a copy FREE by phoning them on 0808 808 0000. We also have a very good video about chemotherapy and radiotherapy in the library.

Avoid people who tell "horror stories" or who make you feel bad or dispirited. However, do chat to people in the hospital and make friends if this feels right.

If you are worried about anything to do with your treatment, ASK QUESTIONS. You may find it helpful to write down your questions beforehand and also to write down the answers - when you are worried or anxious it is difficult to remember what you wanted to ask and also to concentrate on, and remember, the replies. You might like to take someone with you to help you with this.

Don't forget that you can ask to see a Macmillan Nurse.

The radiotherapist will draw marks on the skin to try and keep the irradiated field as small as possible minimising damage to surrounding tissues, and may also ask you if small permanent marks (tattoos) can be made. These are only done with your permission and are used to show where the rays are to be directed. Tattoos give you more freedom between treatments (for washing etc.) so discuss this with your doctor prior to radiotherapy treatment and if it is what you want, say it very clearly.

Expect to wait and be aware that delays do happen, e.g. machines breaking down. If you GO PREPARED e.g. books, walkman, drink, snack (you can buy food and drink at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care) you may not feel so angry or let down if delays occur. Take with you a soft toy, photo or something else that comforts you.

One member found that a walkman with large headphones (rather than the little ear-pieces) shut out the surroundings and was a great help during treatment. Think carefully about what to play on it (e.g. comedy tapes are very therapeutic at other times but it would not do to be shaking with laughter when you are meant to be keeping still for the radiotherapy treatment!) Some of the examples group members have suggested are: meditation, visualisation, relaxation tapes, affirmations or relaxing music.

A number of things may help with the side-effects of radiotherapy:

Aloe Vera gel applied very gently to the affected area.

Aromatherapy Radiation Cream, applied before and after treatment.

A flower preparation called Radiation Remedy.

A homeopathic remedy called Radbrom.

Live yoghurt can help with mouth ulcers.

Some women have said that wearing make-up, painting fingernails etc. made them feel better. Women patients are eligible for a free "Look Good, Feel Better" make-over, which takes place once a month at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care at the Freeman Hospital, Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Ask for separate leaflet which gives details.

Also, positive affirmations may help. Some found the book "Getting Well Again" by Carl and Stephanie Simonton has helped them. (Available in our library)

Remember that maintaining a positive attitude does not mean putting on a brave face all the time. It means making choices and doing whatever you need to help you through whether that is laughing or crying, getting angry, shutting yourself away to meditate, avoiding people, asking for help, buying yourself something nice etc. Going to a support group can help.