During Each Treatment Visit

Getting ready: Before your treatment begins, you may need to change into a gown or pants. Wear clothing that is easy to take off and put on again.

During treatment: In the treatment room, you will lie down on a treatment table. The therapist will use the marks on your skin to locate the treatment area. During your treatment, you will be in the room for about 15 to 30 minutes.

You will need to remain very still during the treatment so the radiation reaches only the area that is needed. Don’t hold your breath – just breathe normally. Expect to hear mechanical sounds coming from the machine. While treatment is taking place, you will be alone in the room. The therapists are able to see and hear you on a TV monitor while treatment is in progress.

After your treatment, you can get dressed and resume your normal daily activities. Most people drive to and from treatment themselves.

The side effects from radiation therapy depend on what part of the body is treated. Your doctor will talk with you about side effects you might experience.