Difference Between Chemotherapy & Radiation

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are prescribed to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy treats cancer with drugs, and radiation therapy treats cancer with high-energy rays.

Uses

• Both chemotherapy and radiation therapy are used to cure cancer, control the spread of cancer and ease symptoms caused by cancer tumors. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are used alone, together or in conjunction with surgery.

Forms

• Chemotherapy drugs are given different ways such as by mouth, in an injection, in a cream rubbed on the skin, into a vein or artery, and into the cavity surrounding your internal organs. Radiation therapy is administered on the outside of your body by a radiation machine or radioactive material is inserted in your body by a physician.

Places for Treatment

• Chemotherapy drugs, depending on the form, are taken at home, at your physician's office or during an inpatient or outpatient hospital stay. Radiation therapy, depending on whether it is external or internal, is administered during an inpatient or outpatient hospital stay.

Side Effects

• Common chemotherapy side effects include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, mouth sores, pain and decreased blood cell counts. Common radiation therapy side effects include fatigue and skin changes such as dryness, itching, peeling and blistering. Side effects usually disappear after the treatment ends.

Considerations

• Certain factors play a role in determining whether chemotherapy or radiation therapy is appropriate for your situation, including the type of cancer you have, if the cancer has spread and your present health condition.