The most common side effects are:

Skin reaction, Irritation, Dry, scaly or peeling skin. The color of the skin darkens like sunburn.

The following are ways to manage skin irritation:

• Do not scratch or rub the affected area.

• Use only mild soaps.

• Avoid heating pads or ice packs on the affected skin.

• When using a towel, pat the area dry instead of rubbing

• Wear loose fitting clothing that does not rub on the skin

• Avoid sun exposure

• Refer to your nurse or physician regarding use of creams or lotions

• Do not swim in salt water or pools

• Report any discomforts or concerns to your nurse or doctor

Side effects of head and neck cancers are:

• Soreness in the mouth and throat

• Dry mouth

• Changed sense of taste and or smell

• Hypothyroidism

Caution: When receiving radiation for head and neck cancers, make sure you do not drive the car immediately, as you might feel giddy or lightheaded.

Other less common side effects are:

• Hair loss

• Nausea/Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Loss of appetite

• Low blood counts

• Lung fibrosis (scarring of the lung tissue). It can cause difficulty in breathing

• Heart complications (very rare)

• Fatigue

References:

Cukier, D., Gingerelli, F., Makari-Judson, G., & McCullough, V.E. (2004).

Coping with Chemotherapy and Radiation. McGraw-Hill: New York.