Just when we thought Hina Khan’s battle with stage 3 breast cancer had come to an end, she shared another update with her fans through her Instagram stories. Recently, she shared a picture of radiation burns on her skin, which are related to her cancer treatment. Despite the visible scars, the actor has been nothing less than optimistic, stating, "The marks will likely fade away over time, and we will get through this." Her courage, resilience and dedication to her craft have been an inspiration to all as she continues to strive on the path towards healing.
Understanding Radiation Burns
As per Dr Shishir N. Shetty, Senior Consultant-Surgical Oncology, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi, radiation burns, also known as radiation dermatitis, occur when the skin cells are damaged due to prolonged exposure to ionising radiation. These types of burns are very common among patients who are undergoing radiation therapy as part of their cancer treatment. The severity of the burns depends on various factors:
- Radiation Dose: Higher doses of radiation tend to cause more significant skin damage in patients as compared to those who have had fewer sessions of radiation therapy.
- Duration of Exposure: The duration of exposure is one of the key factors that determine the risk and severity of burns.
- Skin Sensitivity: The severity of burns also comes down to the sensitivity of one’s skin. Individuals with more sensitive skin tend to experience more severe reactions than others.
Symptoms Of Radiation Burns
Radiation burns show up gradually with increasing sessions of radiation therapy, and symptoms can manifest a few weeks into treatment or even after the final session. Common symptoms include:
- Itching and tenderness
- Redness and inflammation of the skin
- Drying, peeling or blistering
- Discolouration of the skin
Radiation burns caused throughout the cancer treatment are generally mild and can resolve on their own. However, in some cases, they can become more severe and lead to increased pain, infection, or open wounds.
How To Manage Radiation Burns
Most radiation burns can resolve on their own over time and might not need any special care. However, in cases where they are causing discomfort and pain, here are a few things one can do:
- Be Gentle with the Skin: Avoid rubbing or vigorously scrubbing the affected area since it can lead to further damage to the skin.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: It is advised not to use hot or cold packs on the radiation site since the extreme temperatures can do more harm than good to an already sensitive skin.
- Wear Loose Clothing: Loose and breathable fabrics allow the affected skin to heal and reduce irritation.
- Use Skincare Products: One can use lotions, creams, or ointments to deal with the inflammation and tenderness. However, it is advised to consult a healthcare professional before using any over-the-counter products.
- Limit Sun Exposure: Direct sun exposure to the affected area can further exacerbate the skin damage. Hence, it is recommended to avoid direct sunlight to prevent any possible damage.
Bottomline
By understanding radiation burns and how to manage them, patients can minimise discomfort and support their recovery. If you or a loved one are undergoing radiation therapy, consulting a healthcare professional for personalised guidance is always advisable.
From neuropathic pain to radiation burns, Hina Khan has always been more than transparent about her cancer journey and every obstacle she faced along her way. Her strength, faith and gratitude serve as a reminder to her fans that healing is a journey, and it’s okay to take one step at a time.