By Levi Leo
Radiation therapy is commonly used in cancer treatment. It uses light beams with intense energy that destroy cancer cells while protecting healthy body cells. The therapy destroys the cell genetic material which controls how the cells grow and divide. There are different types of radiation therapies, and their main goal is to destroy cancer cells while protecting healthy body cells.
The common types of radiation include;
- 3D conformal radiation therapy (3DCRT)- The procedure uses dimensional scans to determine the size and shape of tumor.
- Image guided radiation therapy (IGRT) -This type of radiation tracks tumors during radiation, and treats tumors in cancers such as liver, pancreas, lungs, prostate gland, etc.
- Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)- The procedure delivers radiation beams directly to the affected part. It’s commonly used when the tumor is very close to surrounding body organs.
There are various therapeutic interventions for radiation survivors to ensure overall wellness. These include;
- Physical therapy
Exercise plays a vital role in cancer treatment, and offers many benefits. Exercise is crucial during and after radiation therapy because it can help reduce the side effects of treatment enhancing your wellness. Exercise help in body recovery and fighting depression.
Research shows that physical therapy minimizes the chance of cancer returning, and a UEW Healthcare therapist will work with you to help you achieve your fitness goals. During therapy, you also learn how to exercise and other adaptive methods to enhance your health.
There are various types of exercises for radiation patients and survivors, Examples include exercise training, moderate intensity aerobics, and resistance exercises for they help mitigate treatment side effects.
- Speech therapy
Cancer mainly affects speech and swallowing mostly for neck cancer patients. It may affect the sinuses, mouth, and neck affecting your speech, hence the need for speech therapy. In most cases, you may need speech therapy after the removal of the larynx which is responsible for voice production. A speech therapist can help you in learning alternative speech methods such as using an artificial electrolarynx and smartphone apps to aid in speech.
- Occupational therapy
Occupational therapy is a handy treatment for cancer survivors. It helps radiation survivors regain vital skills to help in day-to-day activities. It aids patients with simple tasks like dressing, eating, etc. Occupational therapy also involves the use of adaptive equipment to help patients with certain tasks. The therapist will help address things like body image, fatigue management, cognitive defects, sexual activity, etc.
The therapy helps radiation patients overcome eh effects of radiation and their cancer treatments such as chemotherapy. For patients with mental challenges, occupational therapy can keep patients engaged mentally.
- Respiratory therapy
Cancer patients may suffer from respiratory distress due to cancer complications and treatment. There are many ways to deal with breathing problems for radiation survivors and respiratory therapy is pretty common. The therapists may conduct pulmonary rehabilitation which involves
exercises to improve your breathing and minimize shortness of breath. The therapy will also boost airflow, and strengthen your muscles to improve your overall lung health.
Conclusion
Radiation survivors require various treatments to stay healthy. These include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and other treatments that will help stay fit and improve your wellness levels. Discuss this with your doctor, and they will recommend the most suitable therapy to suit your needs.
