Division of specialty medicine

Find out more about this division at South Tees Hospitals NHS Trust

Radiotherapy and oncology

what happens when I have my treatment?

A team of radiographers will treat you; all patients starting a course of radiotherapy will be allocated a named staff member who will offer information, advice and support.

You will be asked to lie on the treatment couch and the radiographers use the marks drawn on your skin to position you in the right place under the treatment machine.

Treatment times are usually very quick; you will be in and out of the treatment room in about 10-15 minutes. Most of this time is spent in dressing, undressing and getting you into the correct position for treatment; the treatment itself usually takes only a few minutes.

During your treatment you will feel no pain or discomfort; we ask you just to breathe normally and to keep as still and relaxed as possible. Most machines make a noise when they are operating; this lets you know when the treatment is taking place. Although you will be alone during your treatment, the radiographers will be able to watch you using a closed circuit television camera and listen via an intercom.

how often will I have my treatment?

Treatment is usually given every day between Monday and Friday. A course of treatment does not have to start on a Monday and could start mid week; the starting day depends on when the planning of your treatment is completed. A course of treatment can vary in length, however this will be discussed with you at your first consultation.

When attending for your radiotherapy treatment, please book in with our receptionist who will let your treatment unit know you have arrived.

will I be radio-active during my course of treatment?

Definitely not! It is safe for you to be with other people including children and pregnant women during your treatment.

How will I feel during treatment?

Many patients complete their course of treatment with few side effects and are able to lead a completely normal life throughout the whole period.

Some courses of treatment however may cause some side effects but these vary considerably depending on the treatment area and of course the individual patient. When you start your treatment, the radiographers will give you further information about any side effects you may have and offer you relevant advice. This may differ from instructions given to other patients. Please listen to what the radiographers tell you and feel free to ask any questions.

tiredness and fatigue

Some patients say they feel more tired and lethargic than usual and this may increase as your treatment continues. This is due to the effects of the radiotherapy, travelling each day and the way people feel. Generally your energy levels will return to normal four to eight weeks after treatment finishes, but sometimes fatigue can continue for several months; please ask a member of staff for more information. It is important to recognise symptoms of fatigue, as there is help available.

skin reactions

A common side effect of radiotherapy is reddening of the skin in the treatment area – this is called erythema. This may be so mild as to go unnoticed or your skin could become quite pink dependent upon your treatment. You will be given further advice about different skin reactions and the best way to care for your skin when you start treatment. Most skin reactions are temporary and settle down within a few weeks after treatment has finished.

hair loss

Any hair that is included in the area marked or where the x-rays leave the body, may fall out; this usually grows back some months later. Your doctor or radiographer will discuss this with you if you are affected; wigs are available through the hospital - please speak to your nurse/radiographer.

nausea (feeling sick)

A few patients may feel a bit sickly during treatment depending on the area being treated. If this happens, please tell the radiographers, we may be able to give you some medication that will help.

your appetite and diet

Some people lose their appetite and find food tastes different to normal. It is important to try and have a good nourishing diet. You may find small frequent meals are more appetising than a large meal. Try and drink plenty of fluids especially if you don’t feel like eating much. Your radiographer or nurse can give you more advice about your diet; they may even suggest you talk to our dietitian.

your emotions

During their treatment some patients feel stressed, anxious, depressed and at times feel unable to cope. Please let us know if you feel like that; it certainly helps to talk about the way you feel. We can offer you appropriate help and advice and we may be able to refer you to specially trained staff to help you cope better.

blood tests

So that we can monitor your general health throughout your treatment, you may have regular blood tests. Sometimes the treatment can cause your blood count to change.

Treatment reviews

Your doctor or radiographer will see you regularly during your treatment in the out-patient clinic. This is to see how you are tolerating the treatment and to discuss any queries you may have. If you have any concerns before you are due for review, please see your named staff member or a member of your care team.

It is important that you tell us about any medication you are receiving and also if you have to attend other hospital appointments or attend for any other investigations.

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