Somnolence after cranial radiotherapy

　　Drowsiness after head radiation therapy may be a normal condition, or it could result from neurological damage, cerebral edema, or other medical conditions. Treatment—either general management or medication—should be based on the specific underlying cause. Detailed analysis is as follows:

　　1. Normal condition

　　Radiation therapy may cause certain physical damage, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, drowsiness, and weakness. Patients may experience drowsiness for a period of time, which is mostly a normal response. Establishing regular sleeping habits, such as going to bed early and waking up early, and maintaining a consistent lifestyle can help the body recover more quickly.

　　2. Nerve damage

　　Radiation therapy may lead to brain nerve damage, causing symptoms such as memory loss and excessive sleepiness. Medications such as mecobalamin tablets or oryzanol tablets may be taken as directed by a physician.

　　3. Cerebral edema

　　Radiation therapy may affect the central nervous system, causing cerebral edema and increased intracranial pressure, which can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headache, and fatigue. Medications such as tranexamic acid tablets or furosemide tablets may be taken as prescribed by a doctor.

　　In addition to the common causes listed above, drowsiness may also be caused by hypertension, hypotension, bone marrow suppression, or other factors. If patients experience any discomfort, they are advised to seek prompt medical attention at a hospital.