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Stereotactic radiosurgery is often used when cancer has only
spread to a few sites in the brain. Side effects vary depending on
where the radiation is aimed, and usually become most serious 1 to 2
years after treatment. Talk with your radiation oncologist about what
to watch for and when to call for help.
Sometimes the whole brain is treated with radiation when
cancer has spread into many sites. This may also be done to prevent
cancer from spreading to the brain. Whole brain radiation can cause
some of the following side effects:
- headaches
- swelling of the brain
- hair loss
- nausea
- vomiting
- fatigue
- hearing loss
- skin and scalp changes
- trouble with memory and speech
- seizures
Medicines are usually given to prevent brain swelling, but it
is important to let your doctor know about headaches and other
symptoms. Delayed effects (usually 1 or 2 years later) of whole brain
radiation can be caused by death of brain tissue. These delayed effects
can include serious problems such as memory loss, stroke-like symptoms,
and poor brain function.
Last Medical Review: 12/23/2008
Last Revised: 12/23/2008
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