HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Ovarian Cancer
Other Treatment
Radiation treatment
Reference Radiation treatment for ovarian cancer uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It's not used very often to treat ovarian cancer.
- External beam radiation comes from a machine outside the body. The machine aims radiation at the area where the cancer cells are found.
- Internal radiation uses needles, seeds, wires, or catheters that contain radioactive materials placed close to the ovaries or inside the body.
Side effects of radiation may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain or discomfort when urinating, and bladder inflammation and scarring. You may also have an increased risk of infection.
Complementary therapies
People sometimes use Reference complementary therapies along with medical treatment to help relieve symptoms and side effects of cancer treatments. Some of the complementary therapies that may be helpful include:
- Reference Acupuncture to relieve pain.
- Reference Meditation or Reference yoga to relieve stress.
- Reference Massage and Reference biofeedback to reduce pain and ease tension.
- Reference Breathing exercises for relaxation.
These mind-body treatments may help you feel better. They can make it easier to cope with treatment. They also may reduce chronic low back pain, joint pain, headaches, and pain from treatments.
Before you try a complementary therapy, talk to your doctor about the possible value and potential side effects. Let your doctor know if you are already using any of these therapies. They are not meant to take the place of standard medical treatment.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference October 22, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Ross Berkowitz, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
