What Are The Major Long Term Side Effects Of Radiation On Bones?

Posted on Sat, 2 May 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 2 May 2015 Answered on

Mon, 18 May 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Can radiation damage your bones? to what extent can this happen?

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Major side effects are osteopenia(decreased bone mass),joint pain etc.

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Major long term side effects of radiation on bones in therapeutic dose are osteopenia(decreased bone mass),joint pain etc.
However,it may also cause bone marrow suppression.It may result in anemia,decreased WBC and platelet count.Drop in cell count is generally transient and patient usually recover after break from treatment.

So,these patients are advised to take vitamin D supplementation,calcium rich food,regular physical activity etc.Patient should also avoid smoking and alcohol.

In growing bones like in children,radiation may cause reduction in bone growth and may result in kyphosis,scoliosis etc.

Get well soon.
Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T