After radiotherapy, am I a risk to my family?

Patients ask this often, and sometimes do not say it aloud. Some stop hugging a grandchild after the first session, or start eating apart. In most cases there is no need for this at all.

External radiotherapy

The machine shines from outside, and when it switches off, the radiation ends. Nothing stays in your body. It is like an X-ray, after which nobody is radioactive.

So you can be near everyone without worry, including pregnant women, babies and children. Hugging, sharing meals and sharing a bed are all fine in this respect.

Brachytherapy

Here a radiation source is placed inside the body.

• Temporary implant: While the source is in the body, you may need a separate room and visits may be limited. Pregnant women and children may not be allowed to visit. After the source is removed, no radiation remains in the body and it is safe to be near anyone.
• Permanent implant: The radiation weakens day by day. For the period your care team states, limit your time near children and pregnant women.

Radioactive medicines swallowed or injected

This substance travels through the body, and some of it leaves in urine, sweat and saliva. So for the first few days, and sometimes longer, precautions are needed. For example, wash clothing and bedding separately and keep away from children and pregnant women. Your care team gives exact instructions based on your treatment and dose, and those are what count.

What about chemotherapy?

This article is about radiation. Ask your care team about home precautions during chemotherapy.

One clear question

Ask your care team: “Which type is my treatment, and are there any limits I should follow?” The answer can put everyone at ease.