Radiation therapy may be used:
- As part of the main treatment of esophageal cancer in some patients, typically along with chemotherapy (known as chemoradiation). This is often used for people who can’t have surgery due to poor health or for people who don’t want surgery.
- Before surgery (and along with chemo when possible), to try to shrink the cancer and make it easier to remove (called neoadjuvant treatment).
- After surgery (and along with chemo when possible), to try to kill any areas of cancer cells that may have been left behind but are too small to see. This is known as adjuvant therapy.
- To ease the symptoms of advanced esophageal cancer such as pain, bleeding, or trouble swallowing (called palliative therapy).
Side effects of radiation therapy:
If you are going to get radiation therapy, it’s important to ask your doctor beforehand about the possible side effects so you know what to expect. Possible side effects of external radiation therapy can include:
- Skin changes in areas getting radiation, ranging from redness to blistering and peeling
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Painful sores in the mouth and throat
- Dry mouth or thick saliva
- Pain with swallowing
These side effects are often worse if chemotherapy is given at the same time as radiation.
Most side effects of radiation are temporary, but some less common side effects can be permanent. For example, in some cases radiation can cause a stricture (narrowing) in the esophagus, which might require further treatment. Radiation to the chest can cause lung damage, which may lead to problems breathing and shortness of breath.
If you notice any side effects, talk to your doctor right away so steps can be taken to reduce or relieve them.