Radiation therapy patients should communicate in advance with their care teams and plan carefully for summer traveling. Summer is a meaningful time for family vacations, special events, traveling and much-needed breaks from everyday routines. For those receiving radiation therapy, it is natural to wonder whether travel is still possible and how to do it safely. For many patients, summer travel is achievable through thoughtful planning, flexibility and close communication with their radiation oncology care team.
Radiation therapy is a form of cancer treatment, involving the use of high-energy radiation to target and kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Because of its use of high-energy radiation, individuals can develop sensitivity in treatment sites.
Experts at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine discuss how to travel safely while staying on track with treatment and recovery.
Is travel possible during radiation therapy?
For most patients, travel is possible with precautions in place. The most important factors are planning, listening to the body, and realistically thinking about how treatment may affect energy and comfort levels while away.
“Staying hydrated, limiting sun exposure and avoiding missed treatments are essential,” said Jessie Gross, manager of ambulatory services at the UAB Department of Radiation Oncology.
Radiation oncologists recognize that family milestones and important trips matter. They recommend engaging in early conversations about traveling with a care team, which allows patients to safely adjust schedules or help decide on timing that makes the most sense.
“We understand how important it is to have these experiences, and we work with our patients to accommodate their travel plans as much as possible,” said Andrew McDonald, M.D., associate professor at the Department of Radiation Oncology.
“Talk to your care team about expected side effects, energy levels, skin care needs and what to do if symptoms arise while traveling,” said Hunter Boggs, M.D., associate professor of radiation oncology.
How do I manage heat, sun and radiation side effects?
Summer heat and humidity can intensify common radiation side effects, such as fatigue, skin changes and hair loss. This makes careful travel planning more crucial.
“Patients may feel more tired and overheated more quickly. Radiation-treated skin can burn or become irritated easily in the sun,” Gross said.
Boggs recommends patients avoid direct sun exposure on areas actively receiving radiation and stay hydrated, as hydration plays a critical role during treatment and recovery.
How do I stay safe during summer activities?
According to Gross, summer activities do not have to be avoided completely for radiation therapy patients, but may need to be limited or done more carefully.
“Patients should pace themselves and rest when fatigue sets in,” Gross said. “We recommend not pushing through exhaustion during activities.”
Water-based activities require special attention.
“If you have raw areas of skin or open wounds during radiation treatment, avoid submersing in water such as a pool, hot tub, lake or ocean,” Boggs said. “Showers or baths in clean water are generally OK, but we advise patients to discuss individual cases with their physician.”
What is the best timing for travel?
When traveling, timing matters just as much as the destination. It is important to time trips, as side effects often build gradually over the course of treatment.
The UAB Radiation Oncology team explains that side effects often start or get worse about two weeks into radiation treatment. They can also peak after treatment ends.
“Because symptoms become more pronounced later during treatment, some patients may find that travel is easier earlier in treatment,” Boggs said.
For patients hoping to plan a post-treatment trip, giving themselves extra recovery time can make a big difference.
“It may be best to wait an additional two to four weeks for a full recovery so you can enjoy your trip more,” McDonald said.
How do I keep up with treatment while traveling?
Maintaining a consistent treatment schedule is essential for radiation therapy to work effectively. Short weekend trips are often easier to manage since they typically do not interfere with treatment appointments.
Neither flying nor long car trips are off-limits for most patients; but comfort and safety should guide decisions, particularly in hot weather.
“Make sure you maintain a cool environment with plenty of access to hydration and nutrition,” McDonald said. “Patients should talk with their doctor about individual medical considerations, such as the risk of blood clots associated with prolonged sitting during travel.”
When should I consider postponing travel?
There are times when postponing travel may be the safest choice. Travel should be reconsidered if side effects would make the trip uncomfortable, unsafe or overly exhausting.
“Patients should delay travel if they feel very tired, their symptoms are getting worse, or they are having trouble eating or drinking enough,” Gross said.