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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|.
Find out 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.
This treatment is most often used to try to shrink the cancer if it’s 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, it’s usually given for a few minutes every day for a few days. Your doctor will discuss the treatment with you.
After being positioned, you’ll be left alone for a few minutes while treatment is given, but you can still talk to your radiographer via an intercom.
We have a separate section discussing radiotherapy|, which you may find helpful.
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’s important to let your doctor know if they continue.
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm)
If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.