Health Tip: Soreness After Radiation Therapy

(HealthDay News) -- External radiation therapy to treat cancer can cause skin soreness near the area being treated.

Here are suggestions on how to minimize discomfort, courtesy of the U.S. National Cancer Institute:

• When washing the affected area, use mild soap and lukewarm water, and pat it dry.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing that won''t constrict the area.
• Avoid scratching or rubbing the skin around the treatment area.
• Don''t apply creams, lotions, oils, perfumes or other products that can irritate the skin.
• Don''t expose the treated skin to sun -- cover it with sunscreen and/or clothing.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Nov. 17, 2006

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