Can radiation therapy cause pneumonia?
Yes, radiation therapy can lead to pneumonia as a complication. Radiation treatment may cause radiation pneumonitis, which is inflammation of the lung tissue. This inflammation can increase your risk of developing pneumonia.
Radiation therapy is also one of the common causes of Show Full Answer
Can radiation therapy cause pneumonia?
Yes, radiation therapy can lead to pneumonia as a complication. Radiation treatment may cause radiation pneumonitis, which is inflammation of the lung tissue. This inflammation can increase your risk of developing pneumonia.
Radiation therapy is also one of the common causes of lowered white blood cell counts, which weakens your immune system. When your white blood cell count drops, your body becomes less able to fight off infections like pneumonia.
The combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy (chemoradiation) carries an even higher risk, as low white blood cell count is one of the most serious side effects of this combined treatment approach.
If you're undergoing radiation therapy, watch for symptoms like:
* Chest pain
* Breathing problems
* Shortness of breath
* Coughing
These could indicate pneumonitis or pneumonia developing. Contact your healthcare team immediately if you experience these symptoms, as pneumonia can be especially serious for people with lung cancer.
January 22
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