# What are the side effects of radiation therapy?

Source: https://oncologyistanbul.com/answers/side-effects-of-radiation-therapy
Last updated: 2026-07-13

According to the U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI), radiation therapy's side effects depend on the part of the body being treated. Many people who get radiation therapy have fatigue, and skin changes are among the effects that may occur in the treated area. Other effects vary by the area treated and may include hair loss, nausea and vomiting, mouth or throat and swallowing problems, diarrhea, or urinary and bladder problems. Healthy cells damaged during treatment usually recover within a few months after treatment is over, so many effects are short-term; but sometimes side effects do not improve, and others — called late effects — may show up months or years later. Discuss what to expect with your doctor or nurse, and ask which side effects and late effects you should watch for.

## Verify at
- [Radiation Therapy Side Effects](https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/types/radiation-therapy/side-effects) — National Cancer Institute (NCI) (checked 2026-07-13)

Related: [Radiotherapy, in depth](https://oncologyistanbul.com/treatments/radiotherapy)