Medical Questions and Answers

The long-term side effects resulting from radiation therapy include the following: Brain: fatigue, hair loss, memory or concentration problems. Breast: skin changes, swelling, or edema. Chest: throat problems, cough, shortness of breath. Stomach and Abdomen:

Radiation therapy typically commences three to eight weeks after surgery, unless chemotherapy is part of the treatment plan. In cases where chemotherapy is planned, radiation usually begins three to four weeks after the completion of chemotherapy. Generally,