Gamma radiation treatment uses high energy gamma rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. According to the National Cancer Institute, half of the patients being treated for cancer will receive some form of radiation treatment. Radiation treatments can be given alone or in combination with surgery or chemotherapy.
Features
Gamma rays are electromagnetic rays that are similar to X-rays. Gamma radiation treatments deliver a high dose of radiation to the cancer cells. The radiation breaks down the cell DNA. This will keep the cells from growing and dividing. Normal cells in the nearby tissue can also be affected. Side effects of gamma radiation are caused by the damage done to normal cells.
Function
The goal of gamma radiation is to damage as many cancer cells as possible without harming much of the nearby tissue. Radiation is a localized treatment. The gamma rays are directed only at the body part begin treated. This minimizes the overall affect of the treatment. Gamma radiation is done to either shrink a tumor, prevent the spread of the tumor or to lessen the changes of recurrence. Shrinking a tumor before surgery can improve the outcome of the procedure. Radiation after surgery can help kill any cancer cells that were left behind.
Types
External radiation occurs when a machine directs the gamma rays into the tumor from outside the body. The radiation can damage all the healthy tissue it passes through. In some cases, the risk of external radiation to healthy tissue is not outweighed by the benefit. Internal radiation involves radiation via an implant at the tumor sight. Internal radiation allows doctors to give you a higher dose of radiation and affect a smaller area of healthy tissue.
Time Frame
Gamma radiation is usually given 5 days a week on Mondays to Fridays. You are able to rest on the weekend. The time off allows your healthy cells to recover. The total number of treatments depends on the size and location of your tumor, the reason for the treatment, your overall health and other treatments being given. Treatment schedules can vary from the 5 day a week plan if a different schedule is better suited to your situation.
Side Effects
The two most common side effects of gamma radiation are fatigue and skin irritation. Fatigue can last for several weeks after your treatment ends. Get plenty of rest and eat a healthy diet. During radiation treatments the skin in the area being treated can become sensitive. Ask your doctor before using any product on your skin. Wear loose clothing over the effected area. Do not rub or scrub your skin. Do not put hot or cold items on the area. Your skin can become sensitive to extreme temperatures. Protect your skin from the sun. You skin can more easily burn than it did before your treatments.
Tags: cancer cells, Gamma radiation, healthy tissue, your skin, become sensitive
