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Common short-term side effects of whole brain radiation include headaches, confusion, and memory problems. You may also experience fatigue, hair loss, and skin changes like discoloration or peeling in the treatment area. Some people have nausea or vomiting, and loss of appetite during treatment. Long-term effects can impact Show Full Answer

Common short-term side effects of whole brain radiation include headaches, confusion, and memory problems. You may also experience fatigue, hair loss, and skin changes like discoloration or peeling in the treatment area. Some people have nausea or vomiting, and loss of appetite during treatment. Long-term effects can impact the heart and lungs. Some people develop radiation pneumonitis (lung inflammation) which can cause chest pain and breathing difficulties. Scar tissue may form in the lungs, making it harder to breathe deeply. While there is a small risk of developing a second cancer years later from radiation exposure, this is rare and the benefits of treatment typically outweigh the risks. Many side effects improve after treatment ends, though some may persist longer. It's important to know that radiation therapy itself is painless - the radiation beams pass through your skin and tissues without any physical sensation. If you experience side effects, your doctor can prescribe medications to help manage them and may recommend palliative care services to improve your comfort during treatment.

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Radiation for Lung Cancer: What To Expect and Side Effects