Radiation Treatment For Larynx Cancer

Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, is one of the most common forms of cancer treatment (including larynx cancer), either administered alone or in combination with chemotherapy and surgical procedures. Larynx cancer is typified by unrestrained multiplication of cells lining the larynx (voice box).

Forms of Radiotherapy

There are two major forms of radiation technique: internal therapy and external therapy. Internal therapy, also referred to as brachytherapy, involves positioning radioactive seeds near the cancer cells present in the larynx. External therapy, meanwhile, involves focusing high-powered radiations such as gamma rays and X-rays in order to damage the cancerous tissues and hence prevent their metastasis.

Time Frame

The duration for administering radiotherapy varies depending on the stage of the cancer, but in most cases you would be exposed to radiation therapy regularly for close to three or four months.

Advantages

Radiotherapy is mostly beneficial to elderly patients and those who cannot undergo resection (surgery) due to heart problems or other chronic disorders.

Side Effects

Skin rashes, loss of hair, appetite loss, fatigue and nausea are some of the side effects of radiotherapy.

Precautions and Warnings

Avoiding exposure to sun rays and other environmental pollutants is often recommended by the doctors of patients undergoing radiotherapy to combat larynx cancer.

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