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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more| .
How we produce our information|
Radiotherapy| treats cancer by using high-energy x-rays, which destroy the cancer cells while doing as little harm as possible to normal cells. It is most often used to try to shrink the cancer if it is causing pain, or to treat cancer that has spread to the brain| or the bones.
The treatment is given in the hospital radiotherapy department as an outpatient. Radiotherapy is often given in divided doses called fractions. When used to relieve symptoms, radiotherapy is usually given for a few minutes every day for a few days. Your doctor will discuss the treatment with you.
Radiotherapy can cause general side effects such as feeling sick (nausea), being sick (vomiting)| and tiredness (fatigue)|. These effects are usually mild when the radiotherapy is given to relieve symptoms. The doctor who plans your radiotherapy (clinical oncologist) will be able to advise you about what to expect. Usually side effects disappear gradually once your course of treatment is over but it is important to let your doctor know if they continue.
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If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.
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