Skin can be damaged by exposure to radioactivity either by accident or by medical treatments involving radioisotopes. Some of the symptoms accompanying radiation exposure include redness, swelling, numbness, itching, tingling, dryness, peeling, changes in color, loss of hair, thinning, hardening and open wounds. The natural healing capability of the human epidermis can deal with some radiation damage. Exposure to the sun, extremes of temperature, harsh soaps or chemicals should be avoided. There are also medical treatments which can assist healing radiation damage.
There are a large variety of topical creams, ointments, oils, moisturizers and other commercial products for treating skin irritation. It is recommended that skin treatments that contain perfumes, deodorants and alcohol not be used for radiation damage. Products containing vitamin E and Aloe Vera have been found to be soothing and to promote healing. Skin treatment products should be applied gently and in accord with product instructions. These products may be useful for minor skin irritations but open wounds should be examined by a physician and only use skin treatments products that are approved by the physician should be employed.
Itching often accompanies radiation skin damage. It can be a serious problem because the natural inclination is to scratch the itch. While this may provides temporary relief, in the long run it may aggravate the skin problem. It may be possible to get some symptomatic relief from radiation caused itching with the use of some over the counter skin soothing compounds. Ingredients which are often found in such products include menthol, calamine, camphor, eucalyptus, phenyleprine hydrochloride, diphenydramine hydrochloride, and other compounds. Severe itching can required something stronger and a doctor may suggest a prescription medication for treatment of itching. OTC oral antihistamines tablets such as diphenhydramine, chlorpheneramine, loratadine, fexofenadine, certirizine, clemastine In addition, doctors may prescribe oral antihistamines such as levocetirizine, carbinoxamine, cyproheptadine, hydroxyzine, azelastine, doxepin.
Radiation damage to the skin may be accompanied by inflammation which would require the use of anti-inflammatory drugs. Corticosteroid compounds such as hydrocortisone in concentrations of up to 1 percent are found in ointments and creams commonly to treat inflammation of the skin. Sometimes, corticosteroids are injected to treat skin inflammation. Non-steroidal drugs, also referred to as NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen can also be used to treat inflammation.
In some cases the skin may be broken and susceptible to infection after damage by radiation. In order to heal this condition, antibiotics must be added to the treatment in addition to the medication used to sooth and heal the irritation, itching and inflammation. Antibiotics may be administered oral, by injection or in the form of topical creams or ointments.
