Side Effects of Mesothelioma Radiation, Mesothelioma Brachytherapy

There are two types of brachytherapy offered - temporary and permanent. The former involves the implantation of seeds for a pre-designated short period of time after which they will be removed. Conversely, permanent brachytherapy means the seeds are never mesothelioma removed though they will eventually stop emitting radioactivity, usually within 3 to 12 months of implantation, depending on the dosage and type of radioactive material used in the treatment.

Brachytherapy is delivered as an outpatient procedure in a shielded room that can contain the radiation. It does not generally require a hospital stay except in the mesothelioma case of some high-dose varieties of this treatment. The seeds or rods are implanted by means of metal tubes or catheters. General or local anesthesia will be used to lessen discomfort. If the therapy is to be of the temporary variety, the applicator may be left in place until the seeds are removed.

When the procedure is complete, the patient may return mesothelioma home but may be advised to avoid interaction with pregnant women and small children, who are most prone to the effects of radiation. However, the amount of radiation released by a person who has undergone brachytherapy is fairly minimal.

Side Effects of Mesothelioma Radiation

Side effects of mesothelioma radiation include fatigue, skin problems, dry mouth, and oral cavity inflammation

Overall, radiation therapy carries far fewer side effects than chemotherapy though the two are often used together to treat mesothelioma cancer. The most common complaints from radiation patients include:

• Severe fatigue - Radiation seems to zap the energy of those who undergo the treatment and many individuals report an extreme level of fatigue during the course of treatment. Many patients also report that the fatigue remains for months or even years after the treatment is complete.
• Skin problems - Redness, dryness, peeling, and a darkening of the skin are common side effects of radiation therapy. Burning of the skin is less rampant then mesothelioma it was in the early days of radiation treatment though it can still occur to some degree.
• Mouth problems - Most patients undergoing radiation treatment report extreme dry mouth or inflammation of the oral cavity as well as changes in taste. These should be reported to a doctor immediately if they are interfering with eating.

Many radiation patients find some relief from these side effects using alternative treatments such as massage, acupuncture, and aromatherapy.

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