Does radiotherapy cause hair loss?
Disease description:
My mother-in-law has been undergoing treatment for breast cancer. She is scheduled to begin radiation therapy in two days, but I’ve heard that radiation therapy has significant side effects. I’d like to ask: Does radiation therapy cause hair loss?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Dahai
Hello, hair loss is generally not common with breast cancer chemotherapy; however, chemotherapy can significantly damage hair, so many patients choose to shave their heads. Radiation therapy is one of the common treatments for cancer and may cause certain functional disturbances, such as decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. If symptoms are mild or absent, no specific intervention is usually required. However, if symptoms are severe, timely medication may be needed to boost the body’s immune function. Hair loss as a side effect of chemotherapy is relatively rare. I hope this information is helpful to you. Wishing you good health!
