Radiation Treatment for Liver Cancer

Radiation therapy is a common treatment administered along with chemotherapy and surgery to fight numerous types of cancer, including liver cancer (cancer typified by uncontrolled growth of cells lining the liver). It irradiates the cancerous cells to destroy them.

Types

• There are two forms of radiation therapy: internal or brachytherapy, and external radiation therapy. Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive seeds near the cancerous tissues. External radiation focuses high-powered rays on the malignant cells.

Time Frame

• The time frame for radiation varies, depending on the metastasis of the cancer within the body. In most cases, radiation therapy is administered daily for close to two months.

Effects

• Rashes, hair loss, reduction in appetite, tiredness and fatigue are some of the common side effects of radiation therapy.

Benefits

• Radiation therapy is especially beneficial to elderly people, and to patients suffering from heart or other chronic disorders who cannot undergo surgery for removal of the cancerous cells.

Warning and Precautions

• While undergoing radiation therapy, avoid excessive exposure to the sun's rays and to pollutants. Also quit smoking and reduce your intake of alcoholic drinks, doctors recommend.