The Difference Between Chemo and Radiation
Your treatment plan may be chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, or any combination of these so it is important that you understand your options.
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Radiation therapy is different for each person. You and your care team will discuss your options.
Your doctor will explain:
You'll also learn how to prepare for your radiation sessions.
Your doctor will order a simulation session before your course of radiation treatment begins.
Simulation will let you “go through the motions” of the radiation therapy experience. It will also give your care team valuable information to use in planning your treatment.
Watch the videos below for details on what to expect before, during, and after radiation treatment for cancer.
Some people experience side effects from radiation oncology treatment. Radiation along with chemotherapy can heighten side effects.
Radiation therapy side effects can depend on the location of your cancer and may include:
Your radiation oncologist and the rest of your treatment team will try to reduce your side effects.
To learn more about radiation treatments or to make an appointment you can:
This short video shows how we prepare a special mask to help with radiation treatments for head and neck cancer.
The Difference Between Chemo and Radiation
Your treatment plan may be chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, or any combination of these so it is important that you understand your options.
Learn more from UPMC HealthBeat.