Tuesday, 17 March 2015

Easing Radiotherapy Skin Reactions

While undergoing radiotherapy treatment for cancer, some patients may experience sore, red or irritated skin, which in rare cases may delay subsequent treatment sessions. A new two-step skin therapy is now on sale over the counter which aims to prevent and minimise these side effects, though you should consult your doctor, radiographer or radiotherapy nurse before using it.

R1 is a cooling, water-based gel that is applied to the affected part of the skin immediately after treatment. R2 is a moisturising lotion, used two to three times daily and at bedtime, to promote healing and reduce soreness. In a recent study, two groups of hospital patients recorded positive effects following applications of the gels.

Good Housekeeping (2013?)