Do you have to wear a mask for radiation?
If your doctor has recommended radiation treatment (or radiotherapy) for cancer of the head, neck or brain, you will likely need a custom-made radiation mask to wear during your treatments.
Why do you need a face mask for radiotherapy?
For most types of radiotherapy to your brain, head or neck area, you wear a mask during each treatment. This is sometimes also called a mould, head shell or cast. The mask is made to hold your head and neck still and in exactly the right position. This helps make your treatment as accurate and effective as possible.
What is a mask for radiation therapy?
Another type of immobilization device used during radiation therapy is a thermoplastic mask. This mask might be used if you’re receiving radiation to your head or neck. The firm plastic mask is molded to your face and secured to the table, so it gently holds your head in place.
What material are radiation masks made of?
Thermoplastic masks are made of a plastic material and look like mesh. The purpose of the mask is to keep you in position to ensure accurate delivery of the radiation beam. The mask will be worn each day for treatment.
What are radiation side effects?
Specific side effects of radiation therapy that affect parts of the body
- Headaches.
- Hair loss.
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
- Extreme tiredness (fatigue)
- Hearing loss.
- Skin and scalp changes.
- Trouble with memory and speech.
How do you know if radiation therapy is working?
There are a number of ways your care team can determine if radiation is working for you. These can include: Imaging Tests: Many patients will have radiology studies (CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans) during or after treatment to see if/how the tumor has responded (gotten smaller, stayed the same, or grown).
What should you avoid during radiation?
What Foods Should I Avoid During Radiation? Foods to avoid or reduce during radiation therapy include sodium (salt), added sugars, solid (saturated) fats, and an excess of alcohol. Some salt is needed in all diets. Your doctor or dietitian can recommend how much salt you should consume based on your medical history.
What is the most common acute side effect of radiation treatment?
Early and late effects of radiation therapy The most common early side effects are fatigue (feeling tired) and skin changes. Other early side effects usually are related to the area being treated, such as hair loss and mouth problems when radiation treatment is given to this area.
What kind of Mask do you wear for radiotherapy?
If you usually wear a wig or head scarf, you need to take these off too. Masks are usually made using a type of mesh plastic. This is moulded to fit the shape of your head and neck. Less often, wet plaster bandages are used to make a mould, which is then used to make a clear plastic (Perspex ®) mask. There are two types of radiotherapy mask:
How does a radiation mask work on your face?
Constructed of mesh and designed to be secured to a treatment table, this mask will be custom-made to precisely fit your face. As you lie on your back, your radiation mask will gently hold your head in place and help you remain in the correct position to ensure the accurate delivery of your treatment.
How is a mask made in a hospital?
The process of making a mask can vary slightly between hospitals. Most often they use a special kind of plastic heated in warm water so that it becomes soft and pliable. Your technician puts the plastic mesh on to your face so that it moulds to fit your face exactly.
How is a perspex mask made for radiotherapy?
A Perspex ® mask is made in two stages. First, the technician or radiographer makes a plaster mould of your head and neck. Then they use the mould to make the clear plastic (Perspex ®) mask for your treatment. To make the plaster mould, they spread a cool cream or gel on your face to protect your skin.
