Frequently Asked Questions in Radiation Oncology

FAQs and Important Information
Frequently Asked Questions in Radiation Oncology

You will lose hair only in the area that is being directly treated.
Yes. You may eat or drink before treatments.
You may take a shower. Use a mild soap such as Dove, then rinse off. Avoid scrubbing or using anything that may cause friction to the treatment area. While drying off, gently pat the treated area with a soft towel and do not rub hard.
Yes. You may drive if you are feeling well and do not have any restrictions from your physician.
Swimming is not recommended. The chemicals found in most pool water may irritate your skin. The alignment skin marks may also fade from soaking in water for too long.
Generally, it takes about 5 minutes to position a patient for a treatment. The actual treatment itself may take another 1 or 2 minutes. In most cases, the overall treatment time will last about 15 minutes.
No. You should not feel any pain. You will not hear or feel the radiation treatment.
Skin marks should be carefully preserved and not washed unless instructed to do so. These markings will fade over time but you will receive permanent tattoos that are small and freckle-like. These will not wash away.