October 15, 2020 - 2m 6s
Although each patient may react differently to radiation therapy, it is normal to experience side effects such as general fatigue and skin irritation. These effects depend on the type of cancer, the location, the dose of radiation and the state of health of the person.
According to the American Cancer Society, radiation therapy can cause early and late side effects.
Side effects of radiation often begin during the second or third week of treatment depending on the prescribed dose and treatment plan. Most of them disappear within a few months of finishing the treatment. Some may continue after finishing treatment because it takes time for healthy cells to recover from the effects of radiation.
Meanwhile, there are ways to reduce the discomfort they may cause. If the side effects you experience become more severe, the doctor may stop the treatments for some time, as well as recommend a change in the plan or the type of treatment you are receiving.
Some recommendations to reduce the side effects of radiotherapy are:
How does the hyperbaric chamber help reduce the side effects of radiation therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygenation treatment is effective when is combined with conventional treatments for cancer. It is very beneficial before and after surgery because it stimulates healing and accelerates recovery times. Although it does not cure cancer, the strong hyperoxia that the hyperbaric chamber generates brings oxygen to all the tissues of the body, including the tumors. This decreases the growth of the same and favors its retraction. In addition, hyperoxia makes irradiation more sensitive, which is why radiotherapy is more effective.
The hyperbaric treatment improves or eliminates burns and radiation-induced lesions, favors the general condition of the patient and their skin, increases their appetite and improves their sleep. In cases in which radiotherapy is applied, oxygenation in the hyperbaric chamber is indicated by international organizations for the recovery of the injuries produced by the rays.
Hyperbaric oxygen has an anti-inflammatory effect and strengthens the vascular system, the osteoarticular, the immune and the central nervous system.
Reference
American Cancer Society