Does Radiotherapy Cause Hair Loss?

High radiation doses are used in radiation therapy, often known as radiotherapy, to destroy cancer cells and reduce tumour size. Despite being targeted, the radiation damages both malignant and healthy cells. Because of this, patients receiving radiation therapy may experience short and long-term adverse effects both during and following their treatment. Side Effects may be different for individuals and depend upon the type of Radiotherapy used. 

External beam radiation and internal radiation are the two different forms of Radiotherapy.

  • External Radiation 

This entails directing radiation beams from a machine onto particular bodily areas. The targeted areas receive larger radiation doses because the lower-energy beams overlap there. Oncologists, who specialise in treating cancer, refer to this kind of treatment as “localised” for this reason.

  • Internal Radiation

Cancer cells are eradicated from within the body using internal radiation. This entails an oncologist giving the patient liquid medications containing radioactive material or implanting solid radioactive material at the tumour site. These can be injected or taken orally. A localised treatment is provided by a solid radiation source. Since liquid radiation spreads throughout the body, it serves as a systemic treatment.

Why Does Hair Loss Occur Due to Radiotherapy?

Radiation therapy stops cancer cells from proliferating and dividing by causing damage to their DNA. But it also affects the radiation-sensitive hair follicles and other healthy cells in the treatment area. Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss caused by damaging the hair follicles.

Radiation therapy only causes hair loss in the treated area. For instance, you would probably lose hair on your scalp if you get radiation treatment to your head. On the other hand, radiation therapy administered to other body parts may result in hair loss in the treated location but does not affect scalp hair.

Hair loss due to radiotherapy is dependent on the following reasons:

  • The size of the area that is being treated. Compared to patients receiving treatment elsewhere, patients undergoing radiation therapy to the head and neck are more likely to lose hair on their scalp.
  • The total radiation exposure that you receive. Repeated and prolonged radiation exposure damages hair follicles more severely over time, causing more widespread hair loss.
  • Kind of radiation you are exposed to.

Three weeks following the commencement of treatment, hair loss may occur. 

How can you deal with hair loss?

One of the more challenging side effects to cope with is hair loss. It’s crucial to follow your instincts and do what makes you feel good about yourself. These suggestions can be useful if your cancer treatments are predicted to cause you to lose hair on your head.

  • Before experiencing hair loss:

Be kind. Use a gentle shampoo and a brush with delicate bristles. Dry off your hair with a pat. Avoid using heat sources like hair dryers, hot rollers, curling irons, or straightening irons. They might harm your hair and exacerbate hair loss. Avoid chemicals. Avoid colouring or bleaching your hair, as well as permanent perming.

  • When hair loss commences:

Cut your hair as soon as you notice hair loss. If you have long hair, cutting it shorter could help minimise the effects of hair loss when it occurs. Shaving your head before hair loss starts may make it easier to cope with the loss of hair. Keep your head protected. Use sunscreen, a scarf, or a hat to shield your skin from the sun. To reduce friction while you sleep, use a satin pillowcase.

  • Nutritional Support: 

Eating a balanced diet high in vitamins and minerals can help with general health issues as well as promote hair growth. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, and vitamins A, C, D, and E are very good for hair health.

  • Patience and Support: 

Following the conclusion of treatment, hair regrowth may take several months to a year. To help you deal with the emotional effects of hair loss, have patience with the process and ask friends, family, or support groups for assistance.

  • Wear a wig

Whether or not to get a wig is a personal decision. Not everyone is comfortable wearing a wig. Consider wearing scarves, turbans, and caps instead of wigs if you’ve decided against getting one. They can look better and require less maintenance.

Radiation therapy frequently causes side effects, including hair loss, especially when the treated area has hair. Patients may find it easier to deal with this difficult side of cancer therapy if they know the variables that affect hair loss, how to cure it, and whether or not it can grow back. Hair transplant Damman can also turn into an effective way to manage hair loss. Throughout your treatment journey, seek individualised guidance and support from your healthcare team.

Cary Grant
Cary Grant
Cary Grant, the enigmatic wordsmith hailing from the UK, is a literary maestro known for unraveling the intricacies of life's myriad questions. With a flair for delving into countless niches, Grant captivates readers with his insightful perspectives on issues that resonate with millions. His prose, a symphony of wit and wisdom, transcends boundaries, offering a unique lens into the diverse tapestry of human curiosity. Whether exploring the complexities of culture, unraveling philosophical conundrums, or addressing the everyday mysteries that perplex us all, Cary Grant's literary prowess transforms the ordinary into extraordinary, making him a beacon of intellectual exploration.