Starting Radiation Therapy? How Franciscan Health Helps You Prepare

When cancer treatment includes radiation therapy, it’s normal to have questions or feel unsure about what’s ahead. You want to know what’s coming and how to handle it.

A Franciscan Health radiation oncologist answers common questions about experiencing radiation therapy as part of cancer treatment.

What Is Radiation Therapy?

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. Cory Hogue, MD, a radiation oncologist at Franciscan Health Cancer Center Munster and Crown Point, explains it simply: “It’s a type of energy like the sun or lights. It’s a very high-dose X-ray focused on the area we want to treat. X-rays kill cancer cells.”

Radiation damages the DNA inside cancer cells. That stops them from growing and spreading.

“A tumor is made up of cells that divide out of control,” explained Dr. Hogue. “One cell becomes two, then four, and eventually you have a mass. Radiation stops that. The damaged cells die, and your body naturally clears them out over time.”

This approach precisely targets cancer cells while protecting healthy tissue as much as possible.

Radiation Therapy At Franciscan Health

At Franciscan Health, we focus on clear communication. We walk you through every step, so nothing catches you off guard. Our team doesn’t just treat cancer, we care for you as a whole person. That means we’ll create a plan to fight cancer and support your goals and well-being.

Franciscan Health offers two main types of radiation therapy. The most common type of treatment is external beam radiation therapy.

“You lie on a table while a machine moves around you,” Dr. Hogue explains. “The room is built with concrete walls, about a foot thick. The machine delivers treatment, and the radiation is completely gone as soon as it turns off.”

Franciscan Health also offers internal radiation, known as brachytherapy. We use this type of radiation for certain cancers. They can include prostate cancer, cervical cancer and endometrial (uterine) cancer. Radiation oncologists place a radioactive source inside the body near the tumor site. This approach allows a high dose of radiation to target cancer with little impact on surrounding tissue.

Both types of radiation therapy are available at Franciscan Health’s cancer care locations, depending on your diagnosis and care plan.

What Should I Expect During Radiation Therapy?

Before radiation therapy begins, you’ll have a planning visit. Your radiation therapy team maps out exactly where to deliver radiation. You may have imaging scans and special markings placed on your skin to guide treatment.

Each session takes just a few minutes. You’ll lie still while the machine delivers the targeted radiation. The treatment itself is painless. After the session, most people can usually return to normal activities. Some people start to feel more tired as treatment goes on, and your care team can help you manage that.

How Franciscan Health Personalizes Your Radiation Treatment

Cancer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Neither is cancer treatment.

“We ask patients to tell us their goals upfront,” Dr. Hogue said. “Some want to be aggressive. Others want to balance treatment with quality of life. Both are valid, and we listen and adapt.”

“While doctors can easily recommend the most aggressive plan, true personalized care means that we plan treatment to your preferences and life goals,” he said.

That means you’re not only heard, but you’re also part of the decision-making.

Side Effects Of Radiation Therapy

Fatigue is the most common side effect of radiation therapy.

“It’s a side effect of all cancer treatments,” Dr. Hogue said. “You may also notice skin changes, like redness, dryness or itching in the treatment area.”

Other side effects depend on the location of your cancer. For example, radiation to the head and neck may cause mouth sores. Radiation to the abdomen might cause nausea.

How Can I Stay Active And Manage Fatigue During Treatment?

“The best thing you can do for radiation fatigue is to do what you normally do,” Dr. Hogue said. “If you feel tired, a nap is a good idea. But if you go home and sleep all day, that can make fatigue worse. If you want to play golf or plant in the garden, go for it.”

Many people find that keeping up with some activity helps them feel more energized. It can also improve their overall well-being during treatment.

“If fatigue becomes overwhelming, your team will help you adjust,” he said.

Why Cancer Patients Choose Franciscan Health

When you face cancer treatment, you want a team that treats you like more than just a diagnosis. We combine advanced treatments with true patient-centered care. We always keep your comfort, goals and well-being top of mind.

Our radiation oncology team offers the following:

• State-of-the-art treatment options, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy
• A personalized approach that focuses on your treatment goals
• A team that’s here to support your physical, emotional and spiritual needs

We’ll help you feel informed and supported through it all.

Connect With A Nurse Navigator

Our oncology nurse navigators are specially trained registered nurses who guide and support you and your family through diagnosis to recovery. They provide:

• A single point of contact for your care team
• Education about your diagnosis and treatment options
• Help with scheduling, insurance and resources
• Emotional support and encouragement

Request A Nurse Navigator Appointment

Let us help you take the next step. Learn more about our radiation therapy services and how we support you during radiation therapy.