Introduction
Weight loss is common in people with cancer. This may be one of the reasons why you go to the doctor first. There are many causes of weight loss, and your doctor can treat many of them. Weight loss is often associated with a loss of appetite.
How much weight can you lose during radiation?
For the whole population, the average BMI was 22.60 kg/m2. A total of 212 patients (8.7%) were underweight, 1157 (47.6%) normal weight and 1064 (43.7%) overweight or obese. During radiotherapy, the median weight loss was 4.33 kg and 53.6% (1,303) of patients had high weight loss (HWL; ?W?5%).
Why do you lose weight during radiation?
Radiation therapy to the head and neck can cause you to lose weight because you may have: dry or sore mouth. little appetite. taste changes due to processing.
Why do cancer patients lose weight so fast?
Cancer cells require more energy than healthy cells, so your body can burn more calories at rest than it normally would. Cells also release substances that affect how your body uses calories from food, which may also contribute to weight loss.
What type of cancer causes weight loss?
According to the American Cancer Society, unexplained weight loss is often the first noticeable symptom of esophageal, pancreatic, stomach, and lung cancers. Other cancers, such as ovarian cancer, are more likely to cause weight loss when a tumor grows large enough to press on the stomach.
How many radiotherapy sessions is normal?
Usually people have treatment sessions 5 times a week, Monday through Friday. This program usually continues for 3-9 weeks, depending on your personal treatment plan. This type of radiation therapy targets only the tumour. But it will affect some healthy tissue that surrounds the tumor.
How long does it take to recover from radiation?
The general effects of radiation therapy, such as fatigue, nausea and headaches, go away fairly quickly after treatment. Your body only needs time to process the radiation, but it can recover in a few weeks.
Do you gain weight after radiotherapy?
After chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, patients often experience metabolic changes, such as weight gain.
How can I gain weight with radiation?
Try to eat small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day. Use smaller plates and cups, as typical portion sizes often seem overwhelming. Try adding nutritious, high-calorie foods like nut butters and avocados to your diet. Smoothies and soups are good sources of necessary fluids and many nutrients.
What should I avoid after radiotherapy?
Radiation therapy can make you tired, and alcohol can make it worse. It is important not to drive or use machinery if you feel tired or dizzy. Ask your doctor or radiologist if you’re not sure if you can drink alcohol.
Conclusion
Appetite changes. Over time, it may seem like your body is slowing down. You may find yourself eating less and losing weight. This is often experienced by people with advanced cancer and others in the later stages of life.
