Caring for Yourself

It is important to care for yourself during radiation therapy because the normal parts of your body that are near the tumor are also receiving some radiation, although not as much as the cancer. These normal parts of your body need time and support to heal.

Things that you can do to help with healing and prevent some symptoms include:

• Take all medications as prescribed.
• Eat a well-balanced healthy diet. You can speak to a dietitian for any advice about what to eat.
• Drink adequate amounts of liquids to stay well hydrated.
• Stay active and do some physical exercises each day.
• Communicate with your family, friends or support group.
• Ask any questions you may have to your nurse or doctor.

During and even after radiation therapy is over, you will need to take special care of your skin. Stay out of the sun, avoid hot or cold packs, and do not use lotions or ointments without checking with your doctor or nurse first. You should also be sure to clean the skin over the areas receiving radiation therapy with warm water and mild soap.

Having a support network in place before and during treatment, it will help make it easier to get through side effects since people you can count on will be around to help you. If you need additional support, let your treatment team know.