Are you scared of radiation therapy for cancer? Let's talk about External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)

When your doctor tells you or a loved one has cancer, it's normal to feel a little scared and anxious when you hear the words "radiation therapy" when talking about the next treatment. When we hear the word "radiation", a slightly scary image comes to our mind. But in reality, with today's technology, these treatments are very advanced and safe. So today, let's talk about the main and most commonly used method of radiation therapy, `External Beam Radiation Therapy` or `(EBRT)`. I am sure that by the time you finish reading this article, you will have lost your fear about this and will have a clear understanding.

Simply put, what is External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)?

It's very simple. This is the main form of radiation therapy used to fight cancer. It involves you lying on a special bed and a large machine that sends a very precisely controlled beam of radiation to the cancer.

The most important thing is, this machine doesn't hit anywhere on your body . It works from a distance. To be precise, this machine is designed to destroy only cancer cells, while minimizing damage to healthy cells.

How does this treatment work inside the body?

This treatment uses high-energy beams. These beams can create powerful, highly charged particles that can kill cancer cells. Some types of beams can travel deep into your body, affecting cancer cells as well as nearby healthy cells. But doctors' main goal is to target only the cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.

There are several main types of particles used for this. Let's take a look at what they are.

Most EBRT treatments use a machine called a `linear accelerator` (LINAC).

What conditions is EBRT treatment used for?

Doctors use this treatment method for several main purposes.

• Destroy cancer cells or stop them from spreading to other parts of the body.
• As an adjunct to other treatments. For example, to shrink a tumor before surgery, or to completely eliminate any remaining cancer cells after surgery or chemotherapy.
• Relieve symptoms. Sometimes, this treatment is used to shrink tumors that are causing pain or other discomfort and provide relief to the patient. We also call this `palliative care`.

This treatment is mainly used for cancers that are localized to a specific location or multiple locations. For example:

• Breast, colon, lung, prostate, uterine, and head and neck cancers
• Cancers such as leukemia and `Non-Hodgkin lymphoma`

Are there different types of EBRT treatments?

Yes. EBRT is divided into several treatment modalities based on how the radiation beam is shaped, directed, and targeted. These are a bit technical, but if you understand them simply, they will be of great help to you.

What happens before treatment? Preparation (Simulation)

Before your treatment begins, there is a planning phase called `simulation.` This is to ensure that everything is set up properly for the first treatment session and to give you a clear understanding of what is going to happen.

In this `simulation`, the following things happen:

• The position in which you are made to lie down: The position in which you are made to lie down during the treatment is the same position in which you will be made to lie down this time as well.
• Scans: A CT, MRI, or PET scan is done to find the exact location of your tumor and determine the angle at which the radiation beams should be directed.
• Skin marking: To determine exactly where the radiation beam will be directed, a very small, dot-like mark is placed on your skin, similar to a tattoo. These marks will remain in place until the end of the treatment period.
• Positioning aids: Things like a mask or cast can be made to fit you to help keep you still during treatment.

This `simulation` can take longer than a typical treatment session, from 30 minutes to two hours. Then, over a few days or weeks, your medical team uses this information to create a treatment plan that is specific to you.

What actually happens during treatment?

EBRT is not an outpatient procedure, which means you can go home the same day you receive the treatment.

Here's what to expect during each treatment session:

1. You will be placed in the same position as you were in the simulation. You will be supported as needed to keep you still and comfortable.

2. After you are positioned correctly, the technician (therapist) will leave the room and turn on the machine.

3. Don't worry! He's watching you on a monitor. You can also talk to him through an `intercom`.

4. The machine moves around you silently, directing radiation beams very precisely at the cancerous tumor.

5. It is very important that you remain still during this time. But you can breathe normally.

6. Radiation is not given continuously, but in short bursts.

Does this hurt?

No. You won't feel the radiation. But you may hear a "clicking" or whistling sound from the machine. You may see flashes of light (especially when treating the brain). You may also smell a strange odor. This is all normal and not harmful.

How long does the treatment take?

Your treatment schedule will depend on the type, size, and location of your cancer. Treatment is usually given daily (five days a week) for several weeks. Your radiation oncologist will clearly explain your treatment plan and duration.

What are the benefits and possible side effects of this treatment?

Radiation therapy has been used for over 100 years. With the technology available today, it has become increasingly safe and accurate. The main advantages of EBRT treatment are:

• Destroying cancer cells.
• Stopping or controlling the growth of cancerous tumors.
• Preventing cancer from coming back.
• Relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

The most common side effect is fatigue . Other side effects depend on the area of ​​your body being treated. Some of them include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Appetite
• Headache
• Hair loss (only in the treated area)
• Difficulty swallowing
• Difficulty breathing
• Redness, itching, or pain on the skin (like a sunburn)
• Inflammation or swelling at the treatment site

The most important thing: Not everyone gets these side effects. Even two people with the same cancer can experience side effects differently. Your medical team will help you manage these.

How long will it take for me to recover?

This also varies from person to person. Some people can continue with their normal activities while receiving treatment. Others may need days off, especially if they are feeling particularly tired.

Side effects usually increase over time. This is because the cancer cells don't die immediately after radiation. It takes days or weeks for them to start dying. So you may not feel any discomfort at first, but you may gradually feel more tired as the treatment continues.

Even after treatment, recovery times vary. Some people recover within a few weeks. For others, it may take several months.

What can I do to make the treatment easier?

Ask your medical team for specific advice based on your treatment plan. In general, these things will help you:

• Get plenty of rest. Fatigue is a major side effect of this treatment. So get as much sleep and rest as possible.
• Eat a nutritious diet.Nutrition is essential for the body to heal.
• Drink plenty of water. It is important to prevent dehydration.
• Listen to your body. If you're tired, work less. Do only what you can.

Tell your medical team about any symptoms you're experiencing. They're there to help you manage side effects and make you as comfortable as possible.

When should I call my doctor?

Before starting treatment, talk to your doctor about what side effects you can expect, as well as any symptoms that could be a problem. In general, tell your doctor right away if you experience any of the following:

• If unexpected or severe symptoms occur.
• If the side effects suddenly get worse.
• If you show signs of infection, such as fever, chills, and shivering .
• If you have difficulty breathing or chest pain .

Your best support is your medical team. Don't hesitate to talk to them about any questions or concerns you may have, during or after your treatment.