Radiation Treatment for Pancreatic Cancer
Know what is radiation treatment for pancreatic cancer, what to expect from treatment, possible side effects and management and lifestyle tips to support the treatment.
Written by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai
Reviewed by Dr. Mohammed Kamran MBBS, FIDM
Last updated on 8th Aug, 2025
Introduction
Pancreatic cancer is a serious condition that requires prompt and effective treatment. One of the key treatment options is radiation therapy, which uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, understanding radiation treatment can help you make informed decisions about your care.
This article explains what radiation therapy is, how it works for pancreatic cancer, its benefits, side effects, and ways to manage them. We’ll also share some lifestyle tips to support your treatment journey.
What Is Radiation Therapy?
Radiation therapy (also called radiotherapy) is a cancer treatment that uses focused beams of energy to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It is often used alongside other treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy to improve outcomes.
For pancreatic cancer, radiation therapy can:
Shrink tumors before surgery to make removal easier.
Destroy remaining cancer cells after surgery.
Relieve symptoms (like pain or blockage) in advanced cases.
How Is Radiation Therapy Given for Pancreatic Cancer?
There are two main types of radiation therapy used for pancreatic cancer:
1. External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) – The most common type, where a machine directs radiation beams at the tumor from outside the body.
2. Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) – A more precise form of EBRT that delivers high doses in fewer sessions.
Your doctor will decide the best approach based on the cancer’s stage, location, and your overall health.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
What to Expect During Radiation Treatment?
Before Treatment
Following procedure occurs:
Simulation Session: You’ll undergo imaging (CT or MRI scans) to map the exact area for treatment.
Markings: Tiny tattoos or temporary marks may be placed on your skin to guide the radiation beams.
During Treatment
Treatment process includes:
You’ll lie still on a table while the machine moves around you.
Each session lasts about 15-30 minutes and is painless.
Treatment is usually given 5 days a week for several weeks.
After Treatment
Post treatment involves:
- You can go home the same day.
- Regular follow-ups will monitor your progress.
Possible Side Effects and How to Manage Them
Radiation therapy is targeted, but it can still affect nearby healthy tissues, leading to side effects. Common ones include:
1. Fatigue
Why it happens: Your body uses energy to heal.
How to manage: Rest when needed, stay active with light exercises like walking.
2. Skin Changes
Why it happens: Radiation can irritate the skin.
How to manage: Use mild soap, avoid sun exposure, and apply doctor-recommended creams.
3. Nausea or Loss of Appetite
Why it happens: Radiation near the stomach can affect digestion.
How to manage: Eat small, frequent meals. Avoid spicy or greasy foods.
4. Diarrhea
Why it happens: Radiation can irritate the intestines.
How to manage: Stay hydrated, eat bland foods (like bananas, rice), and avoid high-fiber foods.
Most side effects improve after treatment ends. If they become severe, inform your doctor immediately.
Lifestyle Tips to Support Treatment
While undergoing radiation therapy, a healthy lifestyle can help you feel better and recover faster:
1. Eat a Balanced Diet
- Focus on high-protein foods (eggs, lean meats, lentils) to help repair tissues.
- Stay hydrated with water, coconut water, or herbal teas.
2. Gentle Exercise
- Light activities like walking or yoga can reduce fatigue and improve mood.
3. Emotional Support
- Talk to a counselor or join a support group for cancer patients.
- Stay connected with family and friends.
4. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
- These can worsen side effects and interfere with healing.
When to Seek Help?
Contact your doctor if you experience:
Severe pain or vomiting
High fever
Uncontrolled diarrhea or dehydration
Sudden weight loss
Can Radiation Therapy Cure Pancreatic Cancer?
Radiation therapy can be very effective, especially when combined with other treatments. However, the success depends on:
The stage of cancer (early-stage has better outcomes).
Your overall health and response to treatment.
Your oncologist will discuss the best treatment plan for your specific case.
Final Thoughts
Radiation therapy is an important tool in fighting pancreatic cancer. While it may cause some side effects, proper care and lifestyle adjustments can help you manage them effectively. Stay positive, follow your doctor’s advice, and lean on your support system during this journey.
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr. Rupam Manna
Radiation Specialist Oncologist
4 Years • MBBS MD(RADIO THERAPY)
Barasat
Diab-Eat-Ease, Barasat
Dr.sanchayan Mandal
Oncologist
17 Years • MBBS, DrNB( MEDICAL ONCOLOGY), DNB (RADIOTHERAPY),ECMO. PDCR. ASCO
Kolkata
Dr. Sanchayan Mandal Oncology Clinic, Kolkata
Dr Gowshikk Rajkumar
Oncologist
10 Years • MBBS, DMRT, DNB in Radiation oncology
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr Devashish Tripathi
Radiation Specialist Oncologist
20 Years • MBBS, PLAB, MRCP (UK)- General Medicine, FRCR (Oncology), Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT)- Clinical Oncology
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Gopal Kumar
Head, Neck and Thyroid Cancer Surgeon
15 Years • MBBS, MS , FARHNS ( Seoul, South Korea ), FGOLF ( MSKCC, New York )
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Rupam Manna
Radiation Specialist Oncologist
4 Years • MBBS MD(RADIO THERAPY)
Barasat
Diab-Eat-Ease, Barasat
Dr.sanchayan Mandal
Oncologist
17 Years • MBBS, DrNB( MEDICAL ONCOLOGY), DNB (RADIOTHERAPY),ECMO. PDCR. ASCO
Kolkata
Dr. Sanchayan Mandal Oncology Clinic, Kolkata
Dr Gowshikk Rajkumar
Oncologist
10 Years • MBBS, DMRT, DNB in Radiation oncology
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr Devashish Tripathi
Radiation Specialist Oncologist
20 Years • MBBS, PLAB, MRCP (UK)- General Medicine, FRCR (Oncology), Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT)- Clinical Oncology
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Gopal Kumar
Head, Neck and Thyroid Cancer Surgeon
15 Years • MBBS, MS , FARHNS ( Seoul, South Korea ), FGOLF ( MSKCC, New York )
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
