Radiation Therapy for Bone Metastases

Possible side effects

• Fatigue is the most common side effect you may notice, often described as an overall “blah” feeling. Feeling tired often starts in the middle of the treatment and may last for weeks after your last radiation session.
• It is normal for you to lose the hair on your body where the radiation beams were aimed. The hair will probably grow back, but it may feel a little different that it did before treatment. However, you will not lose the hair on your head unless your skull is the bone being treated.
• You may also notice some minor skin changes or tingly feeling where the radiation was aimed. This should fade over time.
• Side effects are different for everyone, and depend to some degree on which part of your body is being treated. Your radiation oncologist and nurse will follow you closely during treatment and ask you and your family members about any symptoms. Medications may be prescribed to make you more comfortable.
• Please do not delay in talking to a radiation oncologist or oncology nurse about any side effects or concerns about treatments. They want to help you and your caregivers feel as comfortable as possible.