Cancer treatment has evolved remarkably over the years, and one of the most effective and precise methods to combat cancer is radiation therapy. It plays a crucial role in eliminating cancer cells, shrinking tumors, and improving survival rates for patients. At Sarvesh Health City, recognized as the Best Radiation Oncology Hospital in Hisar, patients receive advanced radiation therapy guided by cutting-edge technology and expert oncologists.
This blog will help you understand how radiation therapy works, its types, benefits, and what patients can expect during treatment.
Understanding Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, uses high-energy radiation such as X-rays, gamma rays, or charged particles to kill or damage cancer cells. The goal is to destroy cancer cells while minimizing harm to nearby healthy tissues.
Cancer cells grow and divide uncontrollably, but radiation damages their DNA, making it impossible for them to reproduce. Over time, these damaged cancer cells die, and the body naturally eliminates them.
Radiation therapy can be used alone or combined with other treatments like surgery and chemotherapy, depending on the cancer’s type, stage, and location.
How Radiation Therapy Works
The basic principle of radiation therapy lies in targeting DNA within cancer cells. Here’s how it works step by step:
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Targeting the Tumor Precisely:
Radiation therapy begins with imaging tests like CT scans or MRI to identify the exact size, shape, and position of the tumor. This helps oncologists plan a personalized radiation dose and direction that minimizes damage to healthy tissues. -
DNA Damage and Cell Death:
When radiation is delivered to the tumor, it creates small breaks in the DNA of cancer cells. Since cancer cells cannot effectively repair this damage, they eventually stop dividing and die. -
Gradual Tumor Shrinkage:
After treatment, the body’s immune system clears out the destroyed cells. Tumor shrinkage may continue for weeks or months after the completion of therapy. -
Protection of Healthy Tissue:
Modern radiation machines, such as Linear Accelerators (LINAC), focus radiation beams precisely, ensuring minimal exposure to normal cells. This targeted approach allows effective treatment with fewer side effects.
Types of Radiation Therapy
There are two main types of radiation therapy — External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) and Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy).
1. External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)
This is the most common form of radiation therapy. A machine outside the body directs high-energy rays toward the cancer site.
Common Techniques Include:
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3D Conformal Radiation Therapy (3D-CRT): Uses computer technology to shape radiation beams that match the tumor’s 3D shape.
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Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT): Delivers varying radiation intensities for better precision.
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Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT): Uses imaging before and during treatment to improve accuracy.
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Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT): Provides a high dose of radiation in fewer sessions, ideal for small tumors.
2. Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy)
In this type, a radioactive source is placed inside or near the tumor. It allows a high dose of radiation to the tumor with limited effect on nearby tissues.
It is commonly used for cancers of the prostate, cervix, uterus, and breast.
When Is Radiation Therapy Recommended?
Radiation therapy can be used in different stages of cancer treatment, such as:
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Curative Treatment: To eliminate cancer completely.
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Adjuvant Therapy: After surgery, to kill any remaining cancer cells.
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Neoadjuvant Therapy: Before surgery, to shrink tumors for easier removal.
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Palliative Care: To relieve pain or symptoms caused by advanced cancer.
What to Expect During Radiation Therapy
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Consultation and Planning:
At Sarvesh Health City, oncologists perform detailed assessments, imaging, and treatment planning to determine the exact radiation dose and schedule. -
Simulation Session:
A special planning session is conducted where patients lie in the treatment position, and marks or molds are created to ensure accurate targeting during every session. -
Treatment Sessions:
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Radiation sessions are usually painless and last for a few minutes.
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Most patients receive therapy five days a week for several weeks.
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The number of sessions depends on the cancer type and stage.
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Follow-up and Monitoring:
After the therapy, doctors regularly monitor progress through imaging and physical exams to ensure the tumor is responding as expected.
Side Effects and Their Management
While radiation therapy is generally safe, it can cause some side effects depending on the area treated. These include:
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Fatigue or tiredness
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Skin irritation or redness
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Hair loss in treated area
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Nausea or appetite loss
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Difficulty swallowing (for head and neck cancer)
How Sarvesh Health City Manages Side Effects
The expert team at Sarvesh Health City provides personalized care to manage these symptoms through nutritional guidance, skin care, medications, and supportive therapies. The goal is to maintain the patient’s quality of life during and after treatment.
Advantages of Radiation Therapy
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High Precision: Advanced imaging and delivery systems target cancer cells accurately.
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Organ Preservation: Helps avoid extensive surgeries in cases like head, neck, or prostate cancers.
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Non-invasive: Most treatments don’t require hospitalization or recovery time.
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Combined Effectiveness: Works effectively with chemotherapy or surgery to improve outcomes.
Why Choose Sarvesh Health City – Best Radiation Oncology Hospital in Hisar
At Sarvesh Health City, radiation oncology is performed using state-of-the-art equipment and international protocols. The hospital’s radiation oncology team comprises highly trained oncologists, physicists, and technologists who ensure safe and effective treatment.
Key Highlights Include:
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Advanced linear accelerators (LINAC) for accurate radiation delivery.
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Personalized treatment plans for every patient.
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Comprehensive cancer care under one roof.
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Focus on patient safety and comfort.
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Supportive counseling and rehabilitation services.
Patients at Sarvesh Health City receive compassionate, evidence-based, and advanced cancer care designed to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Life After Radiation Therapy
Recovery and follow-up care are vital after radiation therapy. Patients are advised to:
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Maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and proteins.
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Stay hydrated.
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Get adequate rest and moderate exercise.
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Attend regular follow-up appointments for long-term monitoring.
Most patients return to normal activities within a few weeks of completing treatment.
Conclusion
Radiation therapy remains one of the most effective tools in the fight against cancer. With advancements in technology and precision techniques, it continues to save lives while minimizing side effects.
If you or your loved one needs expert cancer treatment, visit Sarvesh Health City, the Best Radiation Oncology Hospital in Hisar. Their expert team, modern facilities, and compassionate approach ensure the highest standards of cancer care for every patient.
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