Radiation Therapy for Brain Metastases

Possible side effects

• If you notice a funny whole body skin tingling or rash, contact your doctor right away. This may be a sign of an allergic reaction to medications given before radiation therapy for brain tumors.
• Fatigue is the most common side effect. Feeling tired often starts in the middle of the treatment and may last several weeks after your last radiation session.
• Radiation therapy to the brain can cause scalp irritation and muffled hearing.
• It is normal for you to lose the hair on their head where the radiation beams were aimed. It will probably grow back, but it may not be exactly as it was before treatment.
• Radiation may cause some short-term memory loss. Ask your radiation oncologist about what you can expect and what the risks and benefits of each treatment are.
• Side effects are different for everyone. The radiation oncologist and nurse will follow you closely during treatment and ask you and your family members about any symptoms. Medications may be prescribed to make you more comfortable.
• Please do not delay in talking to a radiation oncologist or oncology nurse about any side effects or concerns about treatments. They want to help you and your caregivers be as comfortable as possible.