Therapeutic Procedures

Information for Patients Receiving Radiation to the Chest

Approximately two week after your first treatment, you may begin to experience side effects or symptoms caused by radiation therapy. These symptoms may continue throughout the treatment period, and gradually disappear after you have completed treatment. Your physician will tell you which symptoms you are likely to experience, when you will notice them and how long they will last. It is important that you follow the appropriate instructions to minimize your discomfort.

Difficulty swallowing:

Foods, which are soft and moist, will be swallowed more comfortably than those, which are firm and dry.

Try eating smaller amounts of food at more frequent intervals. Antacids before meals may be helpful, especially if you are having difficulty with swallowing or are experiencing a burning sensation with food intake. Talk to your physician or nurse about any difficulty swallowing.

If you are taking medicine in a pill form and have difficulty swallowing them, try crushing them and taking them with a teaspoon of ice cream or another soft food, such as applesauce. If the medication is in the form of a capsule, you may open the capsule and empty the contents. If the medication is a narcotic analgesic check with your physician or nurse before crushing or opening the medication. Avoid alcoholic beverages, as they will irritate your throat. Avoid highly seasoned foods, acidic foods or foods that are very hot or cold.

Sore throat:

Use a humidifier or vaporizer in your main living area during the day and in your bedroom at nightTry drinking at least 4-6 eight-ounce glasses of fluid per day. You may want to carry a small plastic bottle of water around with you when you leave home. Try sucking on sugarless mints and candy for added oral lubrication. Mix 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda in 8 ounces of warm water. Gargle with this solution several times a day. Do not use over the-counter mouthwashes or lozenges. These products contain alcohol, which will be very drying to your mouth. Persistent cough: Your nurse or physician will advise you on the use of cough medicine preparation. If you have a lot of mucus, make sure that you are drinking enough fluids to keep the mucus thin so that you will cough it up more easily.