Is it okay to skip radiation therapy and use traditional Chinese medicine for调理 (regulation/adjustment)?

In general, patients who do not undergo radiotherapy may take traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for body regulation, although in some cases TCM alone may not be sufficient. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Possible

Radiotherapy is a localized treatment method that uses radiation to treat tumors, aiming to kill or inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Traditional Chinese medicine, made by decocting various medicinal herbs, helps regulate bodily functions and relieve discomfort symptoms. In cases where radiotherapy is not administered, patients may still take TCM under medical guidance. For example, herbal decoctions containing Scutellaria baicalensis, Coptis chinensis, Pinellia ternata, Atractylodes macrocephala, and Glycyrrhiza uralensis can be used as directed by a physician. Additionally, proprietary Chinese medicines such as Shenling Baizhu San, Renshen Jianpi Pills, or Buzhong Yiqi Pills may also be taken according to medical advice.

2. Not sufficient

For severe conditions such as lung cancer or liver cancer, relying solely on TCM regulation may not adequately control the disease progression. In such cases, a personalized treatment plan should be developed based on comprehensive considerations of the patient's condition, physical status, financial capacity, and other factors. This plan may include integrated treatments such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery, and others.

If patients experience any discomfort, they should promptly seek medical attention at a hospital for targeted treatment to avoid delays in managing their condition.