EFFECTS ON THE ESOPHAGUS

Swallowing can be difficult and cause a discomfort and possibly burning; occasionally, you might feel your food is stuff and stopped in your esophagus.

Practical advice:

• Mix your foods
• Chew carefully
• Avoid spicy foods and alcohol
• Do not smoke

EFFECTS ON THE BRONCHI:

You might have a dry, irritating cough and occasionally feel breathless, sometimes painfull in your chest.

Practical advice:

Do not smoke

• Avoid areas with polluted air
• Avoid fresh places

EFFECTS ON YOUR SKIN:

The surface of your skin might become irritated, red and occasionally sore.

Practical advice:

• Avoid deodorants and perfumes
• Wash with mild soap
• Ask your doctor before applying anything on your skin
• If possible, do not cover your skin, but avoid totally sun exposure

FATIGUE:

Feeling tired does not mean that your condition is deteriorating. Possible causes are: the sickness itself, change in your daily activities, weight loss, lack of appetite, anxiety, treatments you may have received (surgery…), or the daily repetition of your treatment.

NAUSEA:

Most patients do not have nausea; your might feel sick if part of your stomach is irradiated.

Practical advice:

• Avoid hot beverages and fat foods
• If necessary, your radiation oncologist will give you an appropriate treatment before your radiotherapy session begins.
• You may or may not experience the above side effects.
• Most sensation of irritation and congestion will progressively disappear a few weeks after the end of your treatment.
• Tell your therapeutic radiographer or your radiation oncologist about any unusual discomfort you may receive in order to get appropriate treatment.
• Ask your radiation oncologist any further question you may have.