What are the side effects of radiation therapy for cancer patients?

Radiotherapy is a common treatment method, mainly used in the treatment of some cancer patients. Although it has a good effect in killing cells during the treatment process, radiotherapy also has very large side effects. For example, it often causes patients to experience loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, itching of the skin, redness, swelling and congestion of the oral mucosa, and in more serious cases, it can easily lead to oral erosions.

1. Systemic reaction

It manifests as a series of functional disorders and imbalances, such as lack of energy, decreased appetite, physical weakness, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, bloating after eating, etc. Mild cases may not require treatment, while severe cases should be treated in time, combined with traditional Chinese medicine to improve the body's immunity.

2. Local reaction:

a. Skin: Dry skin is manifested by itching, pigmentation and peeling, and can produce permanent light brown spots. Moist skin manifests as eczema and blisters at the irradiated site. In severe cases, it may cause erosion and ulceration. If there is ulceration, MEBO moist burn ointment can be applied to the site and radiotherapy should be suspended.

b. Mucosal reactions:

Mild: Symptoms include redness, swelling, erythema, congestion of the oral mucosa, and decreased secretions. Dry mouth, slight pain, and slightly less food intake. During this period, you should pay attention to keeping your oral cavity clean. Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled brush and double fluoride toothpaste after meals. Eat soft food and avoid eating too cold, too hard, or too hot food. Avoid spicy and irritating food, quit smoking and drinking, and take heat-clearing and detoxifying medicines, such as Niuhuang Jiedu Tablets, Liushen Pills, etc.

Moderate: Oropharyngeal area is obviously congested and edematous, with spotted white film and ulcers, obvious pain, and difficulty eating. During this period, appropriate mouthwash should be selected according to the patient's oral pH value, 8-10 times/day, gargling for 2 minutes, and oral sprays commonly used include Guilin Watermelon Frost, Shuangliao Houfeng Powder, Golden Powder, Ulcer Paste, etc., to protect the oral mucosa, reduce inflammation and relieve pain, promote ulcer healing, and encourage patients to eat boldly, high-protein, high-vitamin and easily digestible foods.

Severe: The oral mucosa is extremely congested, eroded, and bleeding, fused into a white film, the ulcer worsens, and there is purulent secretion, severe pain, inability to eat, and occasional fever. Radiotherapy should be suspended during this period, and oral care should be strengthened 4 times/day to clear purulent secretions. Patients are urged to rinse their mouths 8-10 times/day to prevent mold and fungal infections, and fluconazole 50-100 mg/day should be taken, and antibiotics should be given intravenously, and high-nutrient solution should be supplemented, such as amino acids, albumin, etc., to promote the healing of ulcers.