Radiodermatitis is a skin disease that manifests itself by lesions of varying sizes. It is caused by ionizing radiation carried out on the body, particularly in certain cancer treatments. Acute radiodermatitis appears as an immediate effect of radiation exposure and manifests itself in the days following exposure. Chronic radiodermatitis occurs long after exposure, sometimes even years later. Thus, according to medical studies, more than 80% of children who have undergone radiation for an angioma have developed skin dystrophy in adulthood.
Symptoms of radiodermatitis
Acute radiodermatitis is manifested by erythema of varying severity. Accompanied by edema and pruritus, erythema appears after a few days of exposure to radiation. If they continue at more than 40 Gy, the erythema worsens by peeling the epidermis with ulcerations and blisters, which is called exudative radiodermatitis. In extreme cases, the muscles and bones are exposed by the skin lesions, this is called acute radionecrosis. The effects of chronic radiodermatitis are radiodystrophies that have several forms such as cutaneous xerosis or cutaneous atrophy. It is also referred to as keratotic or fissurous radiodystrophy, which can lead to cancer such as skin sclerosis. Necrotic ulcers appear on the ears, scalp or chest wall.
Homeopathic treatments for radiodermatitis
Homeopathy offers several remedies to prevent the effects of radiation, particularly in the case of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The recommended dosage is 5 granules per dose. During radiotherapy, Radium bromatum 15 CH is prescribed for one dose, every night before going to bed. To relieve redness and stinging, two remedies are recommended to be repeated up to 6 times a day if necessary and to be taken systematically just before and after a radiotherapy session, such as Apis mellifica 5 CH and Belladona 9 CH. To reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, there are also a few effective homeopathic remedies. Thus, to fight against nausea states, you can take Nux vomica, and against digestive disorders, Lycopodium. Taking Gelsemium and Ignatia is also recommended to relieve the anguish and anxiety caused by chemotherapy.
When to see a doctor?
It is especially recommended to consult the doctor when radiodermatitis shows signs of infection. In case of breathing difficulties or dyspnea, the doctor should be promptly notified. Hospitalization may even be required, particularly in the event of chest pain, a drop in blood pressure and an accelerated pulse. In order to respond quickly, people who are exposed to radiation such as chemotherapy should remain vigilant for symptoms and should report any abnormalities to their doctor.
