Radiotherapy - Frequently asked questions

Will I lose my hair?

A. Only if it is in the treatment area. The hair may or may not grow back depending on how much radiation you receive.

How long will the treatment take?

A. The actual treatment only takes a few minutes but it is very important that you should be in exactly the correct position each day. Setting up plus the treatment will take about 15 min. Time spent in the department will be longer on the days when the treatment is being planned, and when you see the doctor.

Will the treatment be painful?

A. The treatment is not painful; however the couch is quite hard and you may find it uncomfortable. There will be side effects from the treatment, which will vary depending on the area of the body being treated.

Will I feel sick?

A. Most patients will not feel sick. This will depend on the area being treated. If the treatment is likely to make you feel sick, the doctor will discuss this with you and give you a prescription for anti- emetic (anti-sickness) tablets.

Can I drive to the Sussex Cancer Centre?

A. Generally, the answer is yes

Will I be able to park at the hospital?

A. The Sussex Cancer Centre has a small car park for the exclusive use of patients and their escorts. This car park costs £1 and uses a token systern. The hospital has a multi-storey car park and there is on street parking in Kemp Town. A map and details would have been sent to you already with your first appointment.

Can my wife/husband come with me?

A. Relatives and friends are welcome. If you are using hospital transport you may be escorted only for the first appointment, unless there is a medical reason for someone to attend with you. If you need an escort for medical reasons the transport will be provided for both of you for each visit.

Will I be tired?

A. Most patients feel tired during their course of treatment. The tiredness will come on gradually and will continue for some weeks after the treatment has finished.

Should I be on a special diet?

A. A normal, healthy diet including lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. The fluid intake should be increased, particularly water. There will be some restrictions during the treatment depending on which part of the body is being treated. The radiographer, and if necessary the dietician will discuss in detail with you.

Can I wash?

A. Yes, you can wash or shower as normal. Apart from the area, which is being treated. This area should be treated with care. The radiotherapist will advise you, and give you a leaflet. Generally, Simple or baby soap should be used and the area dried gently.

Will I have radiation burn?

A. No, the sophisticated equipment, which is used today, has reduced the intensity of skin reactions. In most cases, the skin reaction will be minimal although the skin may become tender and red. The radiotherapist will monitor this regularly

Will I be radioactive?

A. No

Are refreshments available?

A. There is a small snack bar, at the Sussex Cancer Centre which has hot and cold food, also a hot drinks machine. There is a restaurant in the hospital.

Should I carry on taking my medication?

A. Yes, you should. Bring a list of your medication with you when you attend for your first appointment. The doctor will have a look at the list.