Radiation therapy is an effective treatment for many types of cancer. However, it can cause side effects that may make going to work difficult. The ability to work during radiation treatment depends on several factors, including the treatment schedule, the side effects experienced, and the nature of one’s work.
Quick Answers
– Many people are able to work at least part-time during radiation.
– The ability to work depends on the radiation schedule, side effects, and job duties.
– Fatigue is the most common side effect, so adequate rest is important.
– Open communication with your employer is key to getting the accommodations you may need.
– Working can help provide a sense of normalcy during treatment.
Radiation Treatment Logistics
Radiation therapy involves focused beams of radiation directed at cancerous tumors. It is typically administered five days per week (Monday through Friday) for three to nine weeks. Most people receive radiation once a day, but some require two sessions per day.
Each individual radiation session is relatively short. For external beam radiation, the actual treatment lasts only a few minutes as the radiation machine rotates around the body. For internal radiation (brachytherapy), the radiation sources are placed for just a few minutes.
The most time-consuming part of radiation treatment is the prep time. You need to get checked in, change into a gown, get positioned correctly, and go over the treatment plan. Expect to spend at least 30 minutes to an hour per session at the cancer center or hospital.
Daily Treatment Timeframe
Radiation sessions are typically scheduled at the same time each day. Common timeslots are first thing in the morning or later afternoon. This allows the treatments to be completed before or after a regular work schedule.
If you require two radiation sessions per day, they are usually spaced at least 6 hours apart (for example, 8am and 2pm). This again provides some time to go to work between sessions.
Weekly Treatment Schedule
A standard course of radiation therapy lasts five to nine weeks if given once per day. If you require radiation twice per day, the course is shorter, often lasting only two to three weeks.
Radiation is not generally administered on weekends. So you would have Saturday and Sunday off from treatment.
There are some special radiation schedules that are given in larger doses over fewer sessions (hypofractionated radiation). This allows the entire course of treatment to be completed in only one to two weeks. These regimens can potentially allow you to take less time off work.
Dealing with Side Effects
The most common side effects of radiation therapy include:
- Fatigue
- Skin irritation
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty swallowing
- Hormone changes
The severity of side effects depends on the area being treated, the radiation dose, and your individual response. Fatigue tends to be the most problematic side effect that can interfere with work. It often builds up over the course of treatment.
Coping with Fatigue
There are various strategies to help manage fatigue during radiation:
- Take naps or rest during the day if possible
- Go to bed early and sleep in when you can
- Exercise lightly to help boost energy
- Eat a balanced, nutritious diet
- Stay hydrated and limit caffeine and alcohol
- Accept help from others with errands/chores
- Reduce stress and avoid overexertion
Planning your workload and taking periodic breaks can help you stay productive at work.
Managing Other Side Effects
If you experience significant side effects like skin problems or diarrhea, your doctor can provide medications to help control the symptoms. Good hygiene and skin care also help reduce skin irritation during radiation.
Difficulty swallowing and digestive problems may make it hard to eat or drink enough during the day. Ask your doctor about nutritional supplements or shakes if this becomes an issue.
Communicating regularly with your medical team allows side effects to be anticipated and managed appropriately. Don’t hesitate to speak up so problems can be addressed.
Communicating with Your Employer
To work successfully during radiation therapy, good communication with your workplace is essential. Here are some tips:
- Provide your manager with an overview of your treatment schedule and likely side effects
- Discuss any accommodations or scheduling flexibility that may help
- Commit to open communication about your capacity to complete duties
- Utilize sick days or vacation time if needed for recovery
- Look into whether short-term disability benefits are available
- Understand your workplace policies regarding time off
Most employers want to enable continued work where possible. Being upfront about your situation allows adjustments to be made.
Reasonable Accommodations
Some examples of reasonable workplace accommodations could include:
- A modified or flexible work schedule
- The ability to work remotely
- Periodic breaks to rest during the day
- Temporary reassignment of certain job duties
- Use of sick leave for treatments and recovery
Your employer is legally required to provide accommodations that do not impose “undue hardship”. Discuss options so you can focus your energy at work.
The Ability to Work Varies
Your individual ability to work during radiation therapy varies based on several factors:
Radiation Schedule
If you require intensive radiation more than once a day or on weekends, it can be difficult to maintain work hours. A typical Monday through Friday schedule is more manageable.
Side Effects
The more severe your fatigue and other side effects, the harder it will be to function well at work. Not everyone experiences significant effects.
Job Demands
Jobs with flexiblity and less physical demands tend to be easier to navigate while having treatments.
For example, and office-based desk job with understanding managers is likely more feasible than a job requiring manual labor and fixed hours.
Your Energy Level
Your stamina varies day to day. Pace yourself and accept that you may be able to work some days more easily than others.
Listen to your body and take time off as needed. Trying to overexert can prolong recovery.
Finances
Your financial obligations may require continued employment, especially if disability coverage is lacking. But don’t jeopardize your health – discuss reduced hours if needed.
Tips for Working During Radiation
If able to work, the following tips can help you manage radiation treatment while maintaining job performance:
- Schedule treatments early or late in the day to allow adequate work time
- Plan for days off as needed for recovery
- Request accomodations like a modified schedule
- Take short breaks to walk, stretch, or rest during the workday
- Use stress management techniques and coping strategies
- Try to eat well and stay hydrated throughout the day
- Keep open dialog with supervisors about your capacity
- Recognize your limitations and don’t overdo it
Balancing work and cancer treatment is challenging. Do your best not to become overwhelmed and accept that you may need to slow down.
Benefits of Continuing to Work
While demanding, continuing work during treatment can provide important benefits:
- Financial security – Maintain your income flow and benefits.
- Normalcy and distraction – Provides a sense of routine and distraction from treatment.
- Social connection – Stay engaged with coworkers for support.
- Sense of purpose – Give meaning and productivity to your day.
- Life satisfaction – Many people want to work for a sense of fulfillment.
Just be sure not to compromise your health. Find the right balance based on your needs and capacity.
Stop Working if Necessary
While many people manage to continue working, don’t pressure yourself beyond your limits. Radiation therapy is meant to cure your cancer – your job comes second.
If side effects become debilitating, take your doctors’ advice and stop working to recover. You may also want to stop working to reduce stress.
Finances may be tight, but your health has to take priority. Depending on your job, look into:
- Short-term disability benefits
- FMLA and extended medical leave
- Unemployment benefits
- 401k withdrawals or personal savings
- Assistance from family/friends
- Supplemental income options
Discuss your options with HR if you need to take extended unpaid leave. Prioritize healing so you can return to work stronger.
Conclusion
Working during radiation therapy can be challenging but is possible in many cases. The ability to work depends on your radiation schedule, side effects experienced, job demands, and energy level.
Clear communication with your employers about your needs is vital. And listen to your body – don’t overexert yourself beyond your limitations.
Balancing work and cancer treatment is difficult. But continuing work can provide a sense of normalcy and purpose during this challenging time. Focus on your health, and don’t hesitate to make needed adjustments to your job situation.