Everything You Need To Know About Proton Therapy Treatment
Proton therapy is a very precise and advanced radiation treatment for many types of tumors. In comparison to other procedures, proton therapy focuses more energy on tumor with less exposure of radiation to surrounding healthy tissues. Proton therapy in India is becoming popular for treating various types of tumors, such as neck, breast, head and pediatric cancers. Here, we will look at proton therapy in detail, such as what is radiation proton therapy for cancer, how to prepare for proton therapy, what are the complications of proton therapy, what is the cost of proton therapy in India, which are the best hospitals for proton therapy in India, and who are the top doctors for proton therapy in India.
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Table Of Index
What is proton therapy?
Proton therapy, also called proton beam therapy, is an effective radiation treatment which precisely delivers a strong beam of protons to destroy and disrupt tumor cells. In comparison to traditional radiation, protons possess unique properties which allow doctors to precisely target radiation according to the size and shape of tumor. The proton beam will kill the tumor cells and does not affect surrounding healthy tissues. While proton therapy is generally used for treating cancer, it could also be used to treat noncancerous tumor in children as well as adults. Proton beams can also be used for treating tumor composed of different kinds of cells and located in various parts of the body. Proton therapy works by damaging the tumor’s DNA and then destroying the affected cells. The key benefit of proton beam therapy is its ability to more accurately target only the tumor cells, not affecting surrounding healthy tissues. Some conditions that proton therapy can treat include brain tumors, eye melanoma, breast cancer, head and neck cancer, esophageal cancer, lung cancer and liver cancer.
Causes and Symptoms
Causes
- Genetics
- Alcohol, tobacco
- Radiation exposure
- Exposure to some chemicals
- Obesity, diet
- Family history
- Exposures to certain viruses
Symptoms
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent pain
- Fever at night
- Chronic tiredness
- Skin changes
- Lump
- Persistent cough/ trouble breathing
Diagnosis
Computed tomography (CT) scan: It is a common imaging test used for the detection of cancer. A CT scan provides precise and clear images that help detect cancer and find its exact location.
Magnetic resonance imaging: MRI scan uses radiofrequency waves for creating images of inteal organs. MRI scans will help detect cancerous tissues and are used commonly for cancer diagnosis.
X-ray: This imaging test can be used on multiple regions of the body to help identify, stage and treat type of cancer. X-rays produce images using high-energy electromagnetic radiation.
Nuclear medicine imaging: Radioactive dye is given intravenously, orally or by inhalation. A camera will be used to produce detailed pictures of inteal structures. This test helps detect cancers of the bladder, kidney, thyroid, brain, breast, liver, lung and bone.
Ultrasound: This test is frequently used to detect cancer. An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of inteal organs. It allows the doctor to see inside the body in real time, recording organ movement and function.
Risk & Complications
Fatigue: You may feel fatigue after the procedure. However, gentle exercise and rest can help ease symptoms.
Headaches, vomiting, nausea: These may be caused due to swelling in or around the tumor, which may react to the irradiation. Swelling could cause irritation of the affected area of your brain that controls nausea and vomiting.
Hair loss: Due to the rays, there can be temporary hair loss. However, hair generally grows back within 3-6 months. If combined with chemotherapy, there can be total hair loss.
Skin redness: This symptom is temporary and may disappear in 2-3 weeks after irradiation. You should avoid direct exposure to sun after therapy.
Loss of taste/appetite: These symptoms could be connected or might appear independently. The signs will improve slowly after treatment in 1-2 weeks.
Anxiety and depression: Although rare, if the patient experiences anxiety and depression, psychological support might be offered and special treatment might be prescribed, if needed. Anxiety or depression might lead to sleep or eating problems.
Preparation of Treatment
Proton therapy will require planning before treatment starts. Before treatment, you need to have a magnetic resonance imaging scan or specialized computed tomography. You may be asked to not eat or drink for around 9 hours before the procedure. After consulting your doctor, take your regular medicine the day before and morning of the therapy with a small amount of water. Make arrangements for a friend or relative members who can drive you home after the procedure. Keep your valuables such as jewelry at home. Quit smoking and alcohol as it might interfere with the procedure.
Best Hospitals for Proton Therapy Treatment
Apollo Hospital, Greams Road Chennai
21, Greams Lane, Off Greams Road Chennai Tamil Nadu 600006 India
Cost of the treatment
Cost of proton therapy
The average cost of proton therapy treatment in India is approximately $32,800 and apollo proton cancer therapy cost is almost $50,000 although the actual cost might differ depending on various factors, such as the type of therapy, the type and location of the hospital, the method employed, the doctor’s qualifications and experience, and more. Low proton therapy treatment in India is the main reason why thousands of individuals from across the globe choose India as their destination for this procedure.
Recovery
Recovery after proton therapy
It generally takes 4-6 weeks for the body to heal after proton therapy. After being treated with proton beam, most individuals will be able to go home and resume their normal activities. The doctor may order some tests to check how the treatment is affecting the tumor. They may adjust the treatment if required. As the treatment is noninvasive, recovery is generally faster and less uncomfortable in comparison to traditional surgery. It has fast recovery for proton therapy for brain metastases.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proton Therapy
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