Q. What is radiotherapy, and how does it work?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Radiotherapy, also known as radiation therapy, is a medical treatment that uses high-energy radiation to target and kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. It is a common treatment approach for various types of cancer. Radiotherapy works through the following mechanisms:

1. Damaging DNA: High-energy radiation beams, such as X-rays or gamma rays, are directed at the cancerous cells or tumor. When these radiation beams pass through the body, they interact with the DNA inside the cells. This interaction can cause breaks in the DNA strands, preventing the cancer cells from reproducing and ultimately leading to their death.

2. Preventing cell division: Radiation therapy disrupts the cell cycle of cancer cells. Typically, cancer cells divide and grow rapidly, leading to tumor growth. Radiation therapy interferes with the ability of cancer cells to divide and reproduce, slowing down or halting tumor growth.

3. Triggering cell death: Radiotherapy can induce apoptosis, a process of programmed cell death. Cancer cells that have sustained significant DNA damage may undergo apoptosis, leading to their destruction.

4. Damaging blood vessels: In some cases, radiation therapy can damage the blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the tumor. This deprives the tumor of essential resources, leading to its shrinkage.

5. Immune system activation: Radiation therapy can stimulate the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. This immunomodulatory effect can enhance the body's ability to fight cancer.

Radiotherapy is usually administered in multiple sessions over a period of days or weeks to ensure that the radiation effectively targets cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Treatment planning involves precise calculations to determine the optimal radiation dose, the angle of radiation beams, and the number of sessions needed to achieve the desired outcome.

The choice of radiotherapy as a treatment option depends on various factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the location of the tumor, the patient's overall health, and the potential side effects. Radiation therapy can be used alone or in combination with other cancer treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy to provide the best possible outcome for the patient.

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

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