External Beam Radiation Therapy

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 10, 2025.

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EBRT is used to kill cancer cells or stop them from spreading. EBRT is also used to decrease pain caused by metastasis. Radiation is a very strong type of x-ray. EBRT may be combined with other treatments such as medicine, chemo, or surgery. It is usually done in a hospital or clinic. You may need EBRT every day over a period of several weeks.

WHILE YOU ARE HERE:

Before your treatment:

• Informed consent is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that you may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done. Make sure all your questions are answered.
• Tests may be needed before your treatment to check the location, shape, and size of your tumor.

During your treatment:

You may be given medicine to help you stay calm and relaxed. Your healthcare provider will position your body for the procedure. Pillows or supports may be used to hold you in place. Shields may be put over you to block radiation exposure to other parts of your body. A machine will send a beam of radiation to the area of the cancer. You should not feel any pain, heat, or tingling during the procedure. Your healthcare provider will stay nearby in a room and you will be able to talk to him or her. Treatment usually lasts up to 15 minutes.

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After your treatment:

You will be able to go home or be taken to your hospital room.

RISKS:

• Normal cells may be damaged by the radiation. This can cause your tissues or organs to stop working properly. Bone marrow cells may be damaged and increase your risk for infections and fatigue. High doses of radiation can weaken your bones and increase your risk for a fracture. Your skin may become red and dry. It may also bleed, flake off, or start to peel.
• You may have nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. You may lose your hair. You may become infertile after radiation treatment. Your pain may not go away for days or weeks, or it may return. You may need more treatment.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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