Best Doctor List Near You for Radiation Therapy in Westmoreland

Radiation therapy is a medical treatment that uses high doses of radiation to kill or damage cancer cells, inhibiting their ability to grow and divide. The treatment works by targeting and destroying the DNA within cancer cells, which prevents them from replicating and eventually leads to their death. Radiation therapy can be delivered in several ways, including external beam radiation, where a machine directs radiation from outside the body, or internal radiation (brachytherapy), where a radioactive source is placed inside or very close to the tumor. It is commonly used to treat various types of cancer, either as a primary treatment, adjuvant therapy following surgery, or to alleviate symptoms in advanced stages of cancer. The primary cause for using radiation therapy is to control or eradicate tumors that are localized or have not spread extensively, and to reduce the size of tumors to make other treatments, such as surgery, more effective. It can also help in managing symptoms associated with cancer, such as pain or bleeding. Despite its effectiveness, radiation therapy is associated with potential complications. Common side effects include fatigue, skin irritation or redness in the treated area, and localized pain. Depending on the area being treated, patients may experience additional effects, such as dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, or changes in bowel habits. Long-term complications may include the risk of developing secondary cancers due to radiation exposure and potential damage to surrounding healthy tissues or organs. Despite these risks, radiation therapy remains a crucial component of cancer treatment, offering significant benefits in controlling tumor growth and improving patient outcomes.