lung cancer RT side affects Flashcards
When does fatigue typically start and worsen during treatment?
Starts Week 2-3, worsens over treatment
Management includes encouraging rest, hydration, and light activity.
What is esophagitis and when does it begin?
Swallowing pain and inflammation, begins around 20-30 Gy (Week 3-4)
Management includes a soft diet, pain relief (magic mouthwash), and hydration.
When does dysphagia peak during treatment?
Peaks Week 4-6 as esophagitis worsens
Management includes a liquid/puréed diet, pain control, and nutritional counseling.
What is odynophagia and when does it occur?
Painful swallowing, occurs at 30+ Gy, worsens with continued treatment
Management includes lidocaine mouth rinse and proton pump inhibitors if reflux-related.
What is radiation dermatitis and when does it occur?
Skin redness and peeling, occurs at 30-40 Gy (Week 3-4), worsens after 50 Gy
Management includes aloe vera, unscented lotions, loose clothing, and avoiding sun exposure.
When does a dry cough typically begin during radiation treatment?
Starts at 40+ Gy (Week 4-5), may persist for weeks
Management includes monitoring symptoms, increasing fluids, using a humidifier, and considering inhalers if needed.
When does shortness of breath occur in radiation treatment?
Late treatment (~Week 5-6), worsens near end of RT
Management includes assessing breathing patterns, ensuring adequate hydration, and alerting the physician if severe.
What causes hoarseness and when is it more common?
Laryngeal irritation, more common in central lung tumors at 30-50 Gy
Management includes throat lozenges, warm tea, vocal rest, and hydration.
What happens to mucosal ulceration and when does it occur?
Severe esophagitis, occurs at 50+ Gy, near end of treatment
Management includes magic mouthwash, pain medications, and possible temporary feeding support.
When does nausea occur if mediastinal nodes are irradiated?
Occurs at Week 3-4 if lower mediastinum is in field
Management includes small meals, anti-nausea medications (ondansetron), and hydration.
What is the cause of loss of appetite during treatment?
Secondary to esophagitis and fatigue, occurs mid to late treatment (~Week 4+)
Management includes high-calorie shakes, frequent small meals, and appetite stimulants if needed.
What is hemoptysis and when is it more common?
Coughing up blood, more common at high doses (>50 Gy)
Management includes reporting immediately to physician and monitoring closely.
When does chest discomfort occur during treatment?
Occurs at 40-60 Gy, near end of treatment
Management includes pain control, PPI for reflux symptoms, and warm fluids.
What is bronchial inflammation and when does it occur?
Occurs late treatment (~Week 5-6) if bronchial tree is in field
Management includes monitoring breathing, using inhalers if needed, and encouraging deep breathing exercises.
When does sore throat occur and what is its management?
Occurs at 30-50 Gy (~Week 4) if upper mediastinum is in field
Management includes soft foods, warm drinks, and pain relievers.
What causes rib pain during treatment?
Rarely from rib irradiation, occurs at higher doses >50 Gy, late treatment
Management includes pain management and avoiding heavy lifting.
When do taste changes occur and what are they?
Dysgeusia, metallic taste in mouth, occurs at 30-40 Gy (~Week 3-4)
Management includes using plastic utensils, citrus flavors, and rinsing mouth frequently.
When does increased mucus production occur?
Occurs at 40+ Gy (~Week 4-5) due to irritated airways
Management includes encouraging hydration, using a humidifier, and expectorants if needed.
What are radiation-induced hiccups and when do they occur?
Diaphragm irritation, rare, occurs if phrenic nerve or diaphragm in field (~30-40 Gy)
Management includes monitoring, adjusting eating habits, and possible muscle relaxants prescribed by physician.
When does anxiety related to treatment side effects typically peak?
Anytime during treatment, often peaks mid-treatment
Management includes encouraging support systems, relaxation techniques, and consulting a therapist if needed.
