INSTRUCTIONS FOR PATIENTS UNDERGOING RADIATION TREATMENTS TO THE HEAD This information is designed to answer some of your questions during radiation treatments. GENERAL INFORMATION You will experience hair loss, usually within 2-3 weeks after starting your treatments. When your hair starts to fall out, it usually falls out rather quickly and in bunches, over a period of 3-5 days. The hair loss may be temporary or permanent, depending on the dose of radiation given. If temporary, your hair will start to re-grow within 3-6 months of the completion of treatments. You may wish to wear a wig or hairpiece as your hair falls out. When in direct sunlight, it is important to wear a hat or some type of head covering to protect your scalp. Avoid hair and scalp irritants during therapy (hair dyes, curlers, curling irons, teasing, hair spray, harsh shampoos). Wash the hair/scalp with very mild shampoos (avoid washing off radiation treatment markings). SKIN CARE Proper care of your skin includes keeping it clean and dry. Wash with lukewarm water and pat the area dry without removing the lines that are used to mark the area of your radiation treatments. A few weeks into therapy, you may develop some ear and/or scalp itching and tenderness. The skin may become red and irritated. The staff may recommend the use of over-the-counter ointments available at the Regional Cancer Center or at most drug stores. Depending on the radiation dose, it is possible to have a moist reaction behind the ears. This area can become irritated if you wear eyeglasses. Padding the earpiece may help to prevent any irritation. Do not use any creams, lotions, salves, ointments or powders on the treated area, unless directed to do so. If your skin becomes red and irritated, it is a temporary reaction that usually starts to subside within two weeks of completing treatment. Remember, treat the area as you would sunburn and avoid any type of irritation, including friction/rubbing of the surface area being treated. Avoid exposure to the sun and extreme temperatures, i.e., heating pads/ice packs. REACTIONS Report any sign of symptoms of infection, fever, drainage, or odor to the staff. Also report nausea, vomiting, visual changes, mental changes, or seizure activity. If you develop a troublesome headache, pains, and/or fullness in your ears, inform the staff. They will arrange for your physician to examine you. Either prednisone or Decadron® medications may be prescribed to help reduce swelling. Do not stop taking these medications abruptly! When your physician feels that you no longer need this medication, you will be told how to gradually reduce the dose. Possible side effects of steroid medications include increased appetite, stomach irritation, abdominal distention, increased blood sugar (required close monitoring with diabetes patients), moon face, hypertension, and insomnia. NUTRITIONAL CARE Maintaining your weight during treatment is very important, even if you are overweight. Why is this so? Patients who eat well are better able to withstand the side effects of treatments. A balanced diet can help you maintain your strength and prevent body tissues from breaking down. Adequate protein in your diet helps to rebuild the normal tissues that have been affected by the treatments. A feeling of tiredness or fatigue often accompanies treatment, but it will become progressively worse if your nutritional intake is not adequate. Many patients ask about vitamin pills. The best source of vitamins and minerals is foods. During illness, your food intake may be less than optimal, and a vitamin and mineral supplement may be needed. The best choice is a balanced multiple vitamin/mineral supplement which contains up to 100% of the "Daily Value" of most nutrients. It is not a good idea to take "mega-doses" of any vitamin or mineral, including the antioxidant nutrients, as they may interfere with the effectiveness of your treatments. Fruits and vegetables are the best sources for naturally occurring antioxidants. Return To Commonly Asked Questions