General radiotherapy side effects
You might feel low or depressed a couple of weeks after your treatment has finished. This can be because your side effects including tiredness might be at their worst.
It can be difficult to adjust to not seeing health care professionals every day. And it can also be hard waiting for your follow up. This can make you feel isolated. But remember that you can still contact the radiotherapy department or your specialist nurse if you have any problems.
We all have our own ways of managing difficulties.
Some people have a close network of family and friends to support them. Others would rather get help from people who aren't involved in their illness.
There is help available if you need it. You can ask at your treatment hospital about the help in your area.
There might be local support groups for people having treatment for the same type of cancer. The hospital may provide counselling or your GP can refer you to a local counsellor.
There are organisations and support services in your local area that you can access. You can ask your specialist nurse or doctor for more information about cancer services near you.
The NHS website has a service that tells you about local information and support in England.
NHS Inform gives information about illness, treatments and NHS services for people in Scotland.
NHS 111 Wales gives health advice and information for people living in Wales.
The Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICaN) website tells you where to find cancer information and support in Northern Ireland.
Go to the Northern Ireland Cancer Network website
It is normal to find it difficult to cope with your treatment and the side effects. It can help to talk through any worries you have with your doctor, nurse or radiographer.
Find out more about coping with cancer and side effects
Last reviewed: 20 Mar 2023
Next review due: 20 Mar 2027
Radiotherapy can cause some general side effects, such as tiredness and skin reactions.
Coping with cancer can be difficult. There is help and support available. Find out about the emotional, physical and practical effects of cancer and how to manage them.
Counselling can help you come to terms with your cancer. Understanding what it is and how it can help, can help you decide if it is right for you.
Treatments can include surgery, radiotherapy and drug treatments (such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy or targeted cancer drugs). Find out about treatments and how to cope with side effects.
Search for the cancer type you want to find out about. Each section has detailed information about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, research and coping with cancer.
Find out about cancer treatment with radiotherapy, including external radiotherapy, internal radiotherapy, side effects, radiotherapy for symptoms and follow up after treatment.
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