Radiation Therapy for Lung Cancers

Possible Side Effects

• Side effects are different for everyone. Some patients feel fine during treatment while others may feel uncomfortable.
• Possible problems may include skin irritation (redness, tanning, dryness), difficulty or pain when swallowing, and fatigue.
• Lung radiation may cause shortness of breath. This may be temporary or permanent depending on your cancer and its treatment.
• With radiation therapy to the chest, you will likely lose hair on your chest, but not the hair on your head. Chest radiation will not affect your ability to have children.
• Talk to your doctor about any discomfort or pain you may feel. He or she can provide treatments or medications to help.
• Everyone responds differently to the stress of cancer and treatment. Doctors, nurses, social workers and support groups are available to help.