What to Expect When Receiving Radiation Therapy Treatment

On the day of your radiation treatment, you should plan to arrive 15 minutes early so you can get changed and be ready for the treatment.

Just like your verification day, our radiation therapists will confirm your identity and carefully position you on the table. Breathe normally while the equipment moves and buzzes, you will not see or feel the radiation.

Throughout the process, the radiation treatment team will perform a series of quality checks to help assure your safety and the accuracy of the radiation treatment. Our therapists will take x-rays at least once a week, and the radiation oncology team will discuss and review your treatment weekly. Your radiation oncologist will meet with you regularly to keep you informed about your progress and to discuss how to manage side-effects.

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What Body Changes Will You Experience Throughout the Radiation Treatment?

People react to radiation therapy in different ways. Some people lose their appetites and shed some hair while others need daily naps. Listen to your body and be patient with yourself. Eating well and getting plenty of rest will help your body heal.

If you have any questions regarding the radiation treatment, please reach out to our therapists at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at any time!

About Adult Congenital Heart Disease Center

The UPMC Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) Center is a joint program between UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh and UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute. We provide long-term care for adolescents, young adults, maternal patients, and adults with congenital heart disease. Our goal is to provide complete care from your childhood all the way through your life. Our team of experts has a wide knowledge of heart conditions.