Many patients feel anxious before starting radiotherapy. Not because they fear the machine — but because they don’t know what each day will be like.
Before Day 1: Planning CT (Simulation)
Before treatment begins, you undergo a **CT simulation**, where:
- your position is set
- the treatment area is mapped
- markings or small stickers are placed on your skin
This is NOT treatment yet — just preparation.
🔵 Day 1: First Radiotherapy Session
What to expect:
- Therapists position you on the table
- The machine moves around but never touches you
- You hear soft machine sounds
- You feel nothing — no pain, no heat
Most patients are surprised and say: “Ay ganun lang pala? Akala ko masakit.”
🟢 Week 1: Getting Used to the Routine
How you may feel:
- normal energy
- no major side effects
- mild anxiety (normal)
- starting to adjust to the schedule
Treatments are short — around 15–20 minutes total, including positioning.
🟡 Week 2: Your body begins responding
Possible experiences:
- mild fatigue (parang “inaantok”)
- skin getting slightly pink or warm
- slight dryness of throat (for head & neck cases)
Still, most patients can work, drive, and do normal activities.
🟠 Week 3: Fatigue slowly builds up
Common experiences:
- heavier fatigue in the afternoon
- need more sleep or naps
- skin darkening begins
- mild soreness depending on the area
This does NOT mean treatment is harming you — it just means healthy cells are repairing themselves.
🟤 Week 4 to Final Week: Peak of Side Effects
You may feel:
- low energy
- stronger skin changes (redness or darkening)
- dryness or throat discomfort (if head/neck)
- bowel or urinary changes (if pelvis)
This is the most challenging part, but you are close to the finish line.
🟣 Last Day: “Graduation Day”
This is a big milestone. Many centers even allow a “bell ringing” moment or picture taking.
Expect side effects to continue for **1–3 weeks** before improving.
💬 Daily Tips to Make Radiotherapy Easier
- Drink plenty of water
- Eat small, healthy meals
- Moisturize your skin after each session
- Wear loose, soft clothing
- Walk or stretch to reduce fatigue
- Sleep earlier than usual
- Carry snacks if appetite changes
⚠ When to inform your doctor
- fever
- severe pain
- difficulty swallowing liquids
- blistering skin
- persistent vomiting or diarrhea
⭐ Final message
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This article is for education only and does not replace medical advice.