What is a common side effect of both radiation therapy and chemotherapy?

Nausea and vomiting are well-documented side effects associated with both radiation therapy and chemotherapy. These treatments can affect rapidly dividing cells in the body, which includes not only cancer cells but also cells in the gastrointestinal tract. The damage to these healthy cells can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting.

In chemotherapy, the specific drugs used can irritate the stomach and trigger a strong emetic response (the urge to vomit). Radiation therapy, depending on the treatment area, particularly when directed at the abdomen or brain, can also induce similar symptoms due to localized effects on the stomach or nervous system pathways that control nausea.

Understanding the management of these side effects is crucial for nursing care in oncology, as they can significantly impact the patient's quality of life and treatment adherence. Nurses often play a key role in providing supportive care, which may include medications for nausea and dietary interventions to help manage these symptoms.