I have breast cancer and I’m starting radiation tomorrow. I understand that it’s supposed to reduce the risk of reoccurrence and that it is destroying cells. But how? Which cells are affected? Why will it make me tired?
In: Biology
> But how?
Like radiation usually does: blows bits off of DNA and other organelles until the cell stops working.
> Which cells are affected
Everything in a straight line through the body from the radiation source, scaling with time spent in the path of the beam. The art in using radiation treatment is moving the emitter around the body so most cells only get hit for a short time while the cancerous area is constantly lit up.
> Why will it make me tired?
Repairing radiation damage takes resources.
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